Minister pledges government’s assistance to victims of cyclone

Defense Minister Ahmed Shareef Umar, on Thursday, pledged government’s financial assistance to those affected by Cyclone Roanu.

Shareef spoke to “Sun” and said that houses damaged due to the cyclone would be provided financial assistance as per set National Disaster Management Center (NDMC) policy after assessment.

“Financial assistance will be provided by government three, four days after assessment,” said Shareef.

People of Th. Veymandoo placinh sand sacks to prevent floodwater from entering households.

A team of NDMC has been deployed for assessment in Th. Thimarafushi – one of the worst-hit islands.

Shareef said that NDMC was overseeing assessments in additional islands as well.

He said that bad weather was impeding efforts by NDMC to send equipment – such as pumps to stop flooding - to assist some of the islands.

15 islands have reported damage from flooding so far, leaving 42 people homeless.

Islands that have reported damage from Cyclone Roanu:

• Th. Thimarafushi, Th. Hirilandhoo, Th. Veymandoo, Th. Kinbidhoo, M. Muli, G. A. Vilingili, A. A. Ukulhas, L. Kunahandhu, L. Funadhoo, L. Gan, S. Feydhoo, S. Hithadhoo, Dh. Meedhoo, Dh. Kudahuvadhoo, A. A. Bodufulhadhoo.

Media officer for MNDC, Hisaan Hassan said that they were especially focused on providing assistance to Th. Thimarafushi, where 42 people from 15 families have been left homeless and relocated to other houses in the island.

Thimarafushi Council has arranged accommodation for three more families left homeless.