Sri Lanka's Military Deploys Rescue Teams

Colombo (News 1st): Sri Lanka's Military has deployed search and rescue, as well as relief teams to flood affected areas.

As severe weather conditions threaten the island, the Sri Lanka Navy proactively deployed relief teams on 01st June 2024, to vulnerable areas in the districts of Kalutara, Galle, and Matara. These teams are actively engaged in disaster relief operations, working tirelessly to provide necessary aid and support to affected communities.

In response to the heavy rainfall, the rivers of Kalu, Gin and Nilwala as well as their tributaries have reached their overflow levels. To address the ensuing flood risk, 10 Navy flood relief teams have been deployed to the affected areas of Bulathsinhala, Puwakpitiya, Palindanuwara, Welipanna in the Kaluthara district, Thavalama in the Galle district and Akurassa and Panadugama in the Matara district providing essential relief to the impacted communities.

In addition, 116 Navy relief teams, including units from the Rapid Action Boat Squadron, Special Boat Squadron, and Navy Marines, are on standby. They are prepared to be deployed immediately to assist the public in the event of flooding.

The Sri Lanka Army said that it deployed seven rescue teams equipment with boats and other equipment to the Kiriella, Dehiowita, Galathuru Oya, Morawaka, Thawalama, Thihagoda and Neluwa areas.

In addition, troops are also engaged in preparing meals for the affected families in the Malimbada and Saalawa areas.

Further, the Commander of the Sri Lanka Army has instructed the senior ranks to deploy troops for relief efforts, based on the requirements.

Sri Lanka Air Force says that two Bell 212 helicopters and one Bell 412 helicopter are ready to be deployed for rescue operations.