Date: 10th December 2025
Subject: Emergency Relief Distribution for Flood-Affected Communities in the Katunayake FTZ and FTZ aeas
On November 28th, 2025, Cyclone Dithwa struck Sri Lanka, causing widespread disaster and severe flooding. One of the most critically impacted areas was the Katunayake Free Trade Zone (FTZ) region, where the overflow of the Attanagalu Oya river led to catastrophic flooding. The disaster severely affected the residential areas of Awariyawattha, Kovinna, Maduwa, and Walana, submerging homes and boarding houses. This area is densely populated with internal migrant workers from rural villages, who form the backbone of the FTZ workforce. Displaced and isolated, many were trapped in their residences with no access to food or essential supplies, creating an urgent humanitarian crisis.
The Affected Population
The primary victims were the displaced internal migrant workers residing in boarding houses. With limited local support networks and often living in vulnerable accommodations, they were disproportionately affected. The flooding forced them to lock themselves indoors for safety, cutting them off from markets, work, and basic services. This group faced acute shortages of food, clean water, sanitary products, and clothing, exacerbating the risks of waterborne diseases and extreme hardship.
RED Organization’s Relief Initiative
Recognizing the cooperative social responsibility to assist these vulnerable communities, RED Organization mobilized a targeted relief operation. Despite the extreme difficulty in accessing the waterlogged and isolated communities, RED employed various measures to reach the victims. The operation was conducted at multiple locations to maximize coverage.
The relief packages were comprehensive, designed to address immediate survival and hygiene needs. They included:
· Dry Food Items/Rations: To provide sustenance where cooking was impossible.
· Sanitary Products: Critical for maintaining hygiene and preventing disease amidst floodwaters.
· Essential Clothing: To replace waterlogged belongings.
· Meals: Providing ready-to-eat nourishment.
Two key distribution events were held, underscoring a community-embedded approach:
1. Surapathi Hostel, Katunayake FTZ: Essential food items, sanitary products, and necessary clothing were donated directly to affected brothers and sisters residing in the zone.
2. Kovinna Borupan Welawatta Area: Distributions were made to displaced individuals in boarding houses. This event was notably held at the residence of Mrs. Kalyani Subhasinghe of the Katunayake Police, symbolizing strong community liaison. The participation of Mr. Attanayake, the Officer-in-Charge of the Aweriwatta Police Station, further ensured the security and smooth execution of the distribution, highlighting effective collaboration with local authorities.
RED Organization’s timely intervention provided a critical lifeline to hundreds of flood-affected migrant workers in the Katunayake region during their most difficult time. The operation transcended mere charity, embodying a profound commitment to cooperative social responsibility. By successfully navigating logistical challenges to deliver essential aid, RED not only addressed immediate physical needs but also delivered a powerful message of solidarity to a segment of the population that is vital to the national economy yet often socially overlooked during crises. This report commends the efforts of all RED personnel and community partners involved in this vital humanitarian mission.
