Colombo: The special Cabinet subcommittee and officials’ committee, led by Minister of Environment Dr. Dammika Patabendi, convened for the fourth time at the Presidential Secretariat to discuss strategies to mitigate the effects of El Ni±o on employment and agriculture.

According to News.LK, significant focus was placed on the risk of job losses caused by the El Ni±o climate impact and the development of relief measures for those affected. The meeting also addressed strategies to minimize the potential threats El Ni±o poses to vegetable and fruit production, aiming to prevent a shortage of these crops nationwide.

The discussion further reviewed ongoing programs ensuring a continuous water supply for residents in six districts currently experiencing El Ni±o’s adverse effects. These initiatives are crucial for maintaining normal daily life in the affected areas.

Plans were made to hold a media briefing on September 4 to inform the public about the start of the Maha cultivation season. Additionally, a Zoom discussion with district secretaries and the chairpersons of district coordinating committees in the six impacted districts was scheduled. The subcommittee will reconvene on September 14 to continue their efforts.

The meeting included key figures such as Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply Susil Ranasinghe, Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure Samantha Vidyaratne, and other high-ranking officials from various ministries and departments, each contributing to the formulation of effective responses to the challenges posed by El Ni±o.