INTODAY

In Sri Lanka, many families often face difficulties due to adverse weather conditions, including floods, landslides, and heavy winds. To assist those affected, the Sri Lankan government, often under the directive of the President, has implemented special compensation and relief schemes.

If your property, house, or livelihood has been damaged due to a natural disaster, you are eligible to claim compensation. This article guides you on how to apply for this relief, the documents required, and the correct procedure to follow to ensure you receive your funds without delay.

Who is Eligible for Compensation?

To receive this government relief, you must fall under one of the following categories:

1. House Damage: Your house has been fully or partially damaged due to a natural disaster (floods, landslides, falling trees, etc.).
2. Crop Damage: Farmers whose crops have been destroyed by floods or severe drought.
3. Livelihood Loss: Individuals who have lost their small business equipment or shops due to the disaster.
4. Residency: You must be a permanent resident of the affected area.

Required Documents

When submitting your request for compensation, having the correct documentation is crucial to avoid rejection. Ensure you have the following:

• Grama Niladhari Certificate: A letter from your Grama Niladhari (GN) confirming the incident and residence.

• Photographic Evidence: Clear photos of the damage (Before and after photos are helpful if available).

• Police Report: Required for incidents like fire or specific accidents.

• Land Deed/Permit: Proof of ownership for the land or house.

• Bank Details: A photocopy of your bank passbook (The account should be in the applicant's name).

• National Identity Card (NIC): A clear copy of your ID.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Notify the Grama Niladhari You must inform the Grama Niladhari of your division within 24 hours of the incident. The GN will visit the site to inspect the damage and prepare an initial report.

Step 2: Registration at the Divisional Secretariat The report prepared by the Grama Niladhari is sent to the Disaster Relief Unit at your local Divisional Secretariat (DS Office). Cyclone Ditwah

Step 3: Inspection by Technical Officer (TO) A Technical Officer from the DS Office will visit your location to assess the cost of the damage. They will prepare an official estimate (valuation) of how much money is required for repairs.

Step 4: Approval and Payment Once the valuation is approved by the District Secretariat, the compensation funds will be deposited directly into your bank account or issued via cheque.

Emergency Contact Numbers

If you require immediate assistance or if there is a delay in your compensation process, you can contact the following hotlines:

• 117 – Disaster Management Centre (DMC) - 24-hour service.

• 1919 – Government Information Centre (GIC).

• Your Local Divisional Secretariat (Contact numbers are available online).

Important Note

Do not pay any money to middlemen or agents to get this compensation. This is a free service provided by the government. If your documents are genuine and the procedure is followed correctly, you are entitled to this relief.

1. How to apply for flood relief in Sri Lanka online?
2. Compensation for crop damage and farmers.
3. Grama Niladhari letter format for house damage.
4. Disaster Management Centre (DMC) contact number 117.
5. Divisional Secretariat disaster relief application form.
6. National Insurance Trust Fund (NITF) claims.