Colombo, Sri Lanka, Jan. 9 -- Ministry of Defence and Urban Development issued the following news release:
The High-Level Committee for Foreign Relief Aid (Supplies) Coordination (HL-FRAC) convened another meeting at the Parliament complex yesterday (8 January), chaired by the Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd).
During the discussion, special attention was focused on the distribution of relief assistance already received, addressing administrative and operational challenges, and further strengthening arrangements related to storage, supply chains, and logistics to ensure the timely delivery of aid to affected communities.
The Committee also reviewed feedback from recent field visits conducted to assess the effectiveness of relief distribution mechanisms in Kandy, Kegalle, and Nuwaraeliya districts. Progress and feedback following meetings held with the Ministry of Digital Technology, the system vendor, and the National Disaster Relief Services Centre (NDRSC) regarding the implementation of the Inventory Management System (IMS) were also discussed, with emphasis on enhancing transparency, traceability, and accountability.
In addition, the Committee further outlined the way forward for the full operationalization and future development of the IMS to strengthen coordination and real time monitoring of relief supplies.
The Committee, chaired by the Deputy Minister of Defence, has convened on several occasions and has taken decisive measures to ensure transparency and maximum efficiency throughout the relief operations. Foreign humanitarian assistance stored at the Orugodawatta warehouse complex and other designated locations continues to be systematically distributed through the NDRSC.
Relief assistance, provided by 22 foreign countries and the World Food Programme (WFP), is being delivered to support affected communities. This support includes essential food and medical supplies, alongside a range of critical technical equipment required for disaster management operations. Furthermore, the international community has contributed specialized civil engineering equipment for bridge restoration, as well as vehicles to enhance transportation and logistical capabilities.
Reaffirming its commitment, the High-Level Committee emphasized that all foreign assistance will continue to be managed responsibly and distributed equitably, with priority given to the urgent needs of communities affected by 'Cyclone Ditwah'.
Participants at the meeting included all Committee members, senior officials of the DMC NDRSC, office of the Deputy Minister of Defence, and representatives of the Presidential Secretariat and SL Customs.
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
