During the discussions, the Committee paid special attention to the distribution of relief assistance already received, while addressing administrative and operational challenges. Measures to further strengthen storage facilities, supply chains, and logistics were also examined to ensure the timely and efficient delivery of aid to affected areas.
The Committee reviewed feedback from recent field visits carried out in the Kandy, Kegalle, and Nuwara Eliya districts to assess the effectiveness of existing relief distribution mechanisms. Progress following discussions with the Ministry of Digital Technology, the system vendor, and the National Disaster Relief Services Centre (NDRSC) on the implementation of the Inventory Management System (IMS) was also evaluated, with emphasis placed on improving transparency, traceability, and accountability.
In addition, the Committee outlined the next steps for the full operationalization and future development of the IMS, aimed at strengthening coordination and enabling real-time monitoring of relief supplies.
The Deputy Minister of Defence noted that the Committee has convened on several occasions and has taken decisive measures to ensure maximum efficiency and transparency throughout the relief operation. Foreign humanitarian assistance stored at the Orugodawatta warehouse complex and other designated locations continues to be systematically distributed through the NDRSC.
Relief aid provided by 22 foreign countries and the World Food Programme (WFP) is currently being delivered to affected communities. This assistance includes essential food and medical supplies, disaster management equipment, specialized civil engineering machinery for bridge restoration, and vehicles to enhance transport and logistics capacity.
Reaffirming its commitment, the High-Level Committee emphasized that all foreign assistance will continue to be managed responsibly and distributed equitably, with priority given to the urgent needs of communities impacted by Cyclone Ditwah.
The meeting was attended by Committee members, senior officials from the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) and NDRSC, representatives of the Office of the Deputy Minister of Defence, the Presidential Secretariat, and Sri Lanka Customs.
