Search and rescue operations at Meethotumulla continues

More than 50 houses have been damaged and at least seven persons injured with several others reported missing after a part of garbage dump in Meethotumulla collapsed, officials said.

A search and rescue operation is continuing late into the night in the area assisted by army, airforce STF and the police.

There was no clear indication as to how many persons were missing with contradictory claims that the landfill collapsed gradually giving time for people to escape while others claiming that it was sudden and many people did not have time to escape.

Villagers claimed that some of their relatives were reported missing, but other reports said the people had run in different directions and they were still trying to account for them.

President Mithripala Sirisena has directed that all assistance be provided to the affected persons.

Police have appealed to the public not to visit the area to witness the damages or the search operations as it was causing inconvenience for the search and rescue operation.