
India’s NDRF team departs from SL after successful search & rescue mission
The specialized teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), deployed by the Government of India to Sri Lanka in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, departed from Colombo today (Dec. 05) after successfully completing their search and rescue mission. Working in close coordination with and under the guidance of Sri Lankan authorities, the NDRF carried out extensive operations across [...]

Met. Dept warns of increased rainfall on December 9, 10, and 11
The Department of Meteorology says that rainfall in certain parts of the island is expected to increase on December 9, 10, and 11 due to the Northeast monsoon conditions establishing in the island. MORE..

Maldives donates 14 containers of canned tuna
Sri Lanka received a consignment of canned tuna as relief for the people affected by the adverse weather from the Maldives today (Dec. 05), reflecting the strong partnership and regional solidarity between the two nations. The consignment, handed over this afternoon, consists of 25,000 cases of canned tuna, in 14 containers. The shipment was formally [...]

Strict action against traders selling unsafe food in disaster-affected areas
The Public Health Inspectors Union of Sri Lanka (PHIU) says that strict punitive measures will be taken against traders found selling food unsuitable for human consumption in areas affected by the recent adverse weather conditions in Sri Lanka. MORE..

SLT‐MOBITEL calls for public support to keep Sri Lanka connected
SLT‐MOBITEL urgently requests the public not to remove or cut the SLT-MOBITEL Fibre and Copper cables that may be lying on the ground following the recent extreme weather conditions. These cables are operational even when fallen, and several service disruptions have already been reported throughout multiple cities due to their removal or damage. Safeguarding these cables is vital to ensure uninterrupted communication during the crisis.At the same time, SLT‐MOBITEL extends its gratitude and seeks public cooperation in supporting the dedicated workforce, who are tirelessly helping to restore normal life by clearing roads, removing fallen trees, and tackling debris and other obstacles. Their efforts are essential to national recovery, and community support is imperative to help them carry out the work more effectively.As the National ICT Solutions Provider, SLT‐MOBITEL stands firmly with the people of Sri Lanka during this challenging time of disaster. SLT-MOBITEL is committed to providing maximum support to ensure connectivity and recovery and urges the public and volunteer groups to help safeguard the essential SLT-MOBITEL Fibre and Copper cables, enabling uninterrupted service to all communities.

Central Bank issues guidelines for public on handling wet or damaged currency notes amid severe weather
Due to recent adverse weather conditions, some currency notes may have been damaged or exposed to water.The Central Bank of Sri Lanka advises the public to follow the steps in the notice to prevent further deterioration and ensure proper handling.

“Sri Lanka’s apparel sector activates industry-wide relief and recovery effort following severe weather disruptions”
The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) announced that the industry has activated a coordinated response to safeguard communities affected by the severe weather conditions across Sri Lanka. With reports of flooding, landslides and access disruptions in several districts, JAAF confirmed that employee safety and wellbeing remain the sector’s highest priority.JAAF is working closely with all member organizations to identify affected employees, assess immediate needs, and ensure timely assistance. Most factories across the country have resumed normal operations, with only a few isolated pockets still facing access and other infrastructure-related challenges. Across the country, companies are already providing emergency support, including food, clothing, temporary shelter, transport assistance, and other essential supplies for displaced workers, their families and the local community.To streamline relief coordination, JAAF has established focal points for member companies to report affected communities and to share district-level impact updates. This mechanism allows faster mobilization of resources and ensures no employee or family is overlooked.JAAF is also in active communication with Government authorities, providing real-time information on affected employees and supporting national relief efforts in regions where access remains difficult.The Association notes “Our industry’s resilience comes from our people. We are committed to standing with every employee affected by this disaster, and we are working with our members and the Government to ensure immediate recovery and long-term support.”

Survivors pick up pieces in flood-hit Indonesia as more rain predicted
Floods across Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Malaysia have killed more than 1,500 people, with Indonesia bearing the brunt of the human loss.

Op Sagar Bandhu: India Sets Up Field Hospital In Sri Lanka's Mahiyanganaya
(MENAFN - IANS) Colombo, Dec 5 (IANS) Continuing with its relentless relief and rescue efforts under the ongoing Operation Sagar Bandhu, an Indian medical team has been busy setting up a field ...

Indian envoy discusses reconstruction needs with Sri Lanka s Housing Minister after Cyclone Ditwah
Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha met Sri Lanka s Housing and Construction minister to discuss reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts following Cyclone Ditwah, which has killed 486 people so far in the island nation. MORE..