The declaration authorizes the government to implement emergency regulations nationwide under the Public Safety Ordinance.
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Sri Lankan President Anura Kumar Dissanayake has declared a state of public emergency as the country faces the current severe weather disaster.
The declaration empowers the government to impose emergency regulations nationwide under the Public Safety Ordinance. The purpose of declaring a state of emergency is to protect public safety and maintain national stability.
Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan police said it has set up a special operations unit at the police headquarters under the direct supervision of the Inspector General of Police (IGP). The unit has opened dedicated landlines and WhatsApp hotlines for public assistance.
Police officers nationwide have been assigned to rapid-response teams to handle weather-related emergencies within their divisions. Boats, driving equipment and other rescue equipment are ready for immediate deployment. The Disaster Management Center, the armed forces and other agencies have been integrated into a joint emergency operation, the police said.
Additional security measures have been implemented to protect the homes and properties of displaced families, officials said. Police have been instructed to ensure the safety of people living in temporary shelters.
Meanwhile, the Department of Immigration and Emigration has launched special visa facilitation measures for foreign nationals stranded due to flight cancellations and weather-related travel disruptions. Visa extension fees and penalties will be waived for travelers unable to depart after November 28. Tourist, business and residence visa holders have been given a seven-day extension period.
The department said that visa extensions can be made online in the short term and further updates will be issued.
