Sri Lanka's Kandy District Faces Cyclone Ditwah's Aftermath

Cyclone Ditwah ravaged Sri Lanka, with Kandy district bearing the brunt of the devastation. The natural disaster resulted in 618 deaths, triggering catastrophic floods and landslides. Efforts are underway to rescue people in remote areas. The government pledges aid, but experts warn of climate change and unplanned settlements exacerbating the situation.

Sri Lanka's Kandy district, known for being the last royal kingdom of Ceylon, faced significant destruction from Cyclone Ditwah, which has killed 618 people across the country. The disaster unleashed floods and landslides, severely damaging infrastructure. Ongoing search operations aim to find those buried under landslides a week after the cyclone hit.

Kandy city, nestled among three mountain ranges, avoided direct damage, though its road network, power, and communication faced disruptions. However, rural areas experienced catastrophic damage. By Saturday night, the district reported 232 deaths, 91 disappearances, and 1,800 homes destroyed. Some villages remain inaccessible due to uprooted trees and damaged structures.

Authorities pinpointed unplanned settlements as a key issue, with Minipe village witnessing severe tragedy. Boulders from a nearby range crushed 21 houses, with over 30 presumed dead. President Anura Kumar Dissanayake visited the district, pledging financial aid and prohibiting dangerous constructions. Experts urge planned resettlement with disaster precautions to address climate change impacts.

(With inputs from agencies.)