The Consul General of India in Jaffna, Shri Sai Murali, met with the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan, at the Governor’s Secretariat this morning – on Wednesday, 03 December 2025.
Consul General Shri Sai Murali informed the Governor that the Government of India is prepared to provide assistance to the disaster-affected people in three phases:
1. Immediate Assistance (Relief)
2. Reconstruction Assistance (Restoring Livelihoods)
3. Permanent Preparedness (Facing future disasters)
He requested that a list of the Northern Province’s current immediate needs be provided so that assistance could be delivered promptly.
He also requested detailed reports on the damage sustained by infrastructure.
Pointing out that India has already established permanent structures to mitigate the frequent disasters triggered by global climate change, he indicated that similar assistance could be extended in the future to develop such systems here as well.
The Governor noted that during times of disaster, India is always the first to extend its helping hand, and he conveyed his gratitude on behalf of the people of the Province.
The Governor further stated that apart from the Jaffna District, the other four districts of the Northern Province have suffered extensive destruction, including severe damage to infrastructure.
He outlined the damage to various infrastructures such as landing sites, transport routes, bridges, and small and medium-sized tanks.
With floodwaters now beginning to recede, people are gradually returning to their homes from temporary shelters. The Governor highlighted both the assistance being provided by the Sri Lankan Government and the fact that the livelihoods of many people have been entirely destroyed in several places.
The Consul General also elaborated on the assistance provided by India during the disaster and the measures currently underway.
He noted that relief-laden aircraft continue to arrive daily, and various teams, including medical groups, have already reached Colombo.
The Secretary to the Governor of Northern Province and officials of the Indian Consulate participated in this meeting.
