Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe today urged those living in flood-affected areas to evacuate their homes without delay as the armed forces and police will be deployed to provide security to their personal belongings and property. 

He was addressing a special press conference at Temple Trees today (19) to brief media on the steps taken by the government regarding the disaster situation prevailing in the country due to torrential rains.

The PM says that the prevailing weather condition in the country could worsen if rain fall increases and that the government is taking necessary steps to face such a situation.

The army, police and other teams will be deployed to relevant areas, he said.

He requested the public living in flood affected areas not to remain in their houses as it could prove highly dangerous. 

Wickremesinghe stated that the some people do not want to leave their homes in fear of losing their properties as they could be stolen. 

“We have separately discussed with the tri forces and police to strengthen the security in these areas from tomorrow morning,” he said. 

The PM stated that measures are also being taken regarding the health issues which are surfacing due to the flooding. 

He also urged everyone to assist in the disaster management process as “this is not a normal situation”. 

The Prime Minister said that the floods especially affecting Gampaha and Colombo districts have become the main problem and that following discussions held last night it was decided to prioritize providing boats to these districts. 

“Because government boats, navy boats and police boats are not sufficient we have taken steps to get boats from fishermen and other companies.” 

Boats provided from the government and private-owned boats are now being used in these areas, he said, adding, that around 150 boats are currently being operated in Colombo and Kolonnawa areas.