The statement states that 130 people have been reported missing, “Figaro” reports.
The director general of the Center for Disaster Management, Sampat Kotuvegoda, said that rescue operations are ongoing and that almost 44,000 people have been displaced due to the strong storm that has been affecting the country for a week.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has declared a state of emergency as the country faces devastating floods.
As the officials stated, the aim of the introduction of emergency measures is to ensure the stability of the country and speed up aid operations after heavy rains caused floods and landslides on a large part of the island.
The Sri Lankan Police has formed a special operations unit that has opened a dedicated phone line and WhatsApp app for those who need help.
As the police announced, the Center for Emergency Situations, the armed forces and other agencies were included in the framework of joint operations, reports Xinhua.
Additional security measures were taken to protect the homes and property of the evacuated families. At the same time, the Ministry of Immigration has introduced visa relief for foreign nationals who cannot leave the country due to air traffic disruptions, so they will be exempt from visa extension fees and overstay fines.
(Vijesti.ba)
