At this critical moment, when people are enduring indescribable suffering due to the natural disaster, there is absolutely no meaning in the operation of co-operative societies that do not step forward to help them. Such societies might as well shut their shops and leave, warned Governor of Northern Province Hon. N. Vethanayahan.
In accordance with the President’s directive, a special discussion to identify disaster impacts and needs in the Northern Province was held on Monday, 01December 2025, in the afternoon under the Governor’s chairmanship. It was during this meeting that the Governor expressed his dissatisfaction.
The Mullaitivu District Secretary, who shared his observations during the discussion, pointed out that although co-operative societies had been approached over the past two days to distribute essential items, including dry rations, to affected people, no positive response had been received from them. He noted that these societies were reluctant to cooperate in the distribution activities.
Upon hearing this, the Governor angrily remarked: “If societies created for the people do not come forward to help when the people are suffering, what purpose do they serve? Everyone seems to think too highly of themselves but shows no concern for the welfare of the people.”
The immediate and long-term needs of all five districts of the Northern Province were examined individually during the meeting.
Roads, culverts, and electricity distribution infrastructures damaged by the floods must be repaired immediately.
Agricultural crops have been destroyed on a large scale due to the disaster. Therefore, farmers must be encouraged to replant in the paddy fields and engage in home gardening.
A priority-based list of needs for each district must be prepared and dispatched immediately.
The Governor also instructed District Secretaries and Secretaries of the Provincial Ministries to work in coordination and expedite these tasks.
The Chief Secretary of Northern Province, the Governor’s Secretary, Secretaries of the Provincial Ministries, and the District Secretaries of all five districts of the Northern Province participated, including through online platforms.
