Sewalanka distributed emergency rations which included milk powder and rice to those displaced by the floods.

Extremely heavy rainfall in the east of the island during December caused severe flooding in many parts of the Batticaloa district.

Flood waters displaced thousands and homes, fields and businesses in a number of towns and villages suffered extensive damage. While some flooding during the northeast monsoon isn’t uncommon, the extent of this year’s floods was unusual, with over 10 000 people displaced across the district.

Some villages exceeded two meters of water, inundating homes and infrastructure and forcing the displaced to seek refuge in public buildings and in the homes of relatives. Continued rain prevented people from returning to their homes and as the numbers of displaced grew there was an urgent need for provisions in many parts of the district. NGOs operating in the area and the government worked hard to coordinate their relief effort and Sewalanka Foundation distributed rations that included milk powder and rice to families.

Once the flood waters receded, displaced families were able to return to their homes, however the damage in many villages was extensive with many homes, crops, furniture and fittings destroyed or damaged.

The scale of the flooding was such that meeting short-term needs was a priority, however long-term financial assistance is being provided to affected communities as well.

Recovery from a natural disaster is a long process and for communities to make a full recovery it is necessary to move beyond the provision of basic rations. Families who have lost their homes and livelihoods will need long-term support. Because of the considerable number of displaced families in the district, relief agencies operating in the area shared responsibility for their care.

After discussions with the government and other agencies, Sewalanka has undertaken to look after the long-term well-being and recovery of 1243 families. The project will be funded by DanChurchAid.

In terms of long-term assistance, Sewalanka plans to provide those affected with concessionary loans, which will allow them to restore homes and fields damaged by the water and help rebuild their lives.

“Sewlanka officers will assist flood victims with every step of the recovery process. By offering concessionary loans we want to encourage people to consider a viable long- term plan for recovery and prevent them from becoming dependent on grants and aid,” said Lakshi Abeyesekera, Director of Special Projects at Sewalanka.