Delay in sending equipment hampering clearing efforts

President Chandrika Kumaratunga directed the Ministry of Rehabilitation to dispatch these requirements without delay, the statement issued by the presidential secretariat said.

It said as at 13th January the ministry purchased and dispatched 12 pick up trucks, 10 tractors, 90 generators and 50 water pumps to the North and East.

No money

However, Mullaitivu District Secretary (DS) on Tuesday told journalists that clearing efforts are delayed as the government has not sent necessary equipment including dowsers, backo machines and tractors to the area.

Sent to North East 12 pick up trucks 10 tractors 90 generators 50 water pumps Presidential secretariat

“We requested Rs. 198.1 million from the government but only received Rs. 28 million so far,” DS Emilda Sukumar said.

She said it is now confirmed 2765 were dead in Mullaitivu while 580 are still missing after tsunami disaster.

Food stamps

In Kilinochchi, DS Rasanayagam said although they have received enough food and medicines from the government, vehicles and temporary tents are still needed.

Government said in the statement that both Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu districts were given two pick up trucks and five tractors each.

District Secretaries in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu meanwhile carried 80,000 food stamps to their districts out of 100,000 brought to Vavuniya on Monday.