Still no subha nekatha for their homes

By Gamini Mahadura

For some tsunami-affected families it’s avurudu for the third consecutive year in temporary shelters. This is the story of about 12 families living in Kesbepana, Unawatuna.

These people, most of who are from the fishing community, have been living for three years in shelters put up by the JVP’s relief front organisation. Although an NGO had begun constructing a housing scheme for this community, close to their temporary abode, the work had suddenly ceased with no reasons being given, the residents complain. They also say the temporary shelters are now in a dilapidated condition.

One of the residents M.P. Piyasena said he had lost his wife and 20-year-old son in the tsunami and he was looking after his three daughters. He said he was forced to give up night fishing and fish only during the day time as he didn’t want to leave his three young daughters alone at home at night. He said their temporary house was falling apart and they had no proper toilet facility.

Sanjeevani Wasanthi said the houses were meant only for a six month duration and the planks were coming off while most of the roof in her shelter has blown off.

Another resident H. Saman said an NGO had begun work on 35 houses and when about 30 of them had been nearing completion the NGO had abruptly stopped all work.