He assured the people who have evacuated their homes that the personal belongings will be protected.

The Premier requested people refusing to leave their homes to do so without delay.

Addressing a special press conference at Temple Trees yesterday to inform the media on the steps taken by the government to meet the prevailing disaster situation in the country, the Premier said that some people in the flood-hit areas were refusing to leave their homes in fear of loosing their personal belongings.

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

“We have discussed with the security forces and police about a plan to strengthen security in these areas and protect personal belongings and this will be initiated from today,” he added.

Prime Minister Wickremesinghe describing the relief measures, said the tri-forces and the Police were working with the government officials round the clock to assist the affected people. He said that efforts are also being made to meet the health issues which will come to the fore due to flooding.

The Premier said steps are being taken to provide boats for the flood affected areas in the Gampaha and Colombo districts. He also noted that the government will put in place a comprehensive post-disaster relief mechanism to assist the affected people. The Prime Minister said the Disaster Management Centre and other experts will also prepare a comprehensive mechanism to face disaster situations in the future. (CDN)