Recovery to require months of rebuilding homes, roads and livelihoods

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are responding to urgent needs as Sri Lanka faces one of its worst natural disasters in decades as days of intense rain, fueled by Cyclone Ditwah, triggered massive floods and landslides across the island. The cyclone pushed unusually heavy rainfall over almost every district, causing major rivers to overflow, hillsides to collapse and entire towns to be covered by water. Across the island, Salesian missionaries and the broader Salesian Family have mobilized rapidly to respond to the needs of the affected population.

According to official disaster management in the country, around 1.3 million people have been impacted with over 15,000 homes destroyed or severely damaged. More than 350 people have been confirmed dead and more than 360 are missing. In addition, more than 200,000 people have been displaced and moved into 1,275 shelters

Large parts of the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central and Southern provinces remain submerged, while rescue teams continue searching for the missing in landslide-prone regions. The flooding and landslides caused extensive destruction to public infrastructure.

A Salesian noted, “Many roads, bridges, and village access routes have been washed away or blocked, leaving several communities isolated. Power cuts, water contamination and communication failures have been reported in multiple districts. Emergency crews from the military and police continue clearing roads, restoring utilities, and delivering food and medicine to stranded families. Some Salesian communities have opened their houses to displaced families and are coordinating relief activities with parish groups, youth movements and volunteers.”

Salesians are distributing cooked meals, dry rations, clothing, and hygiene supplies. They are also providing emergency shelter for families who lost their homes; supporting children, youth and elderly affected by trauma; and helping rescue teams by offering manpower, transport and logistical support

One Salesian commented, “People come with only the clothes they are wearing. We cannot solve everything, but we can be a place of hope.”

The suffering is immense, and long-term recovery will require months of rebuilding homes, roads, and livelihoods. Salesian communities are asking for prayers and solidarity and support for the thousands who have lost loved ones, homes, and security.

Salesian missionaries have been operating in Sri Lanka since 1956. In 1963, missionaries set up their first technical institute. Since then, they have established 17 more in locations across the country, as well as youth centers and other programs to help youth in need.

###

Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Sri Lanka – Cyclone-Driven Floods Bring National Emergency

Salesian Missions – Sri Lanka

World Bank – Sri Lanka