Urban Development and Water Supply Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and Housing, Construction and Eastern Province Education Minister Ferial Ashroff during their visit to Palliyagodalle in Medirigiriya last week assured war-ravaged villagers of long term assistance.
People of Palliyagodalle are in dire straits due to loss of life and property on account of a terrorist attack a decade ago, which devastated their entire village. Nearly 428 families, eking out a living in temporary cadjan huts after this attack are worst affected by the prevailing drought.
Addressing villagers, Minister Ferial Ashroff said that as a first step, the Government will provide material assistance to put up 50 houses.
She added: "We expect the village people to actively participate in the construction work."
She said that it’s her intention to encourage Muslim brethren in Colombo and the suburbs to contribute lavishly to develop this village. "I entered politics, though a Muslim woman in order to continue the services rendered to the Sri Lankan Muslims by the late Mr. Ashroff."
Minister Gunawardena said that the tragedy faced by the people of Palliyagodelle cannot be easily forgotten nor endorsed.
The government will help them by building the required tanks and irrigation channels soon.
Business and Professional Women’s Association Chairperson Janaki Gunawardena also spoke.
