Opposition MP Harsha de Silva has intervened to save centuries‑old records belonging to the Kandy courts and government offices that were affected by floodwaters due to Cyclone Ditwah.
In a statement on social media, MP de Silva said that the Director of the Department of National Archives, Dr. Nadira Rupasinghe, made a public appeal for intervention, stating that these documents should be kept for some time in a refrigerated environment.
He further said that, as such, he had personally arranged for three refrigerated containers, each 40 feet long, to be dispatched to Kandy, following a discussion with the Chief Executive Officer of Aitken Spence Logistics, Janaka Gunawardena, one of the country’s leading companies, and his team.
“For coordinating this effort with Kandy state officials, I am grateful to Chamindrani Kirielle and all members of the Kandy Bar Association who extended their support. I also thank Minister of Justice Harshana Nanayakkara for granting approval and extending cooperation. Special thanks go to Aitken Spence Company and its Deputy Chairman, Parakrama Dissanayake, who came forward for this cause,” he said, extending his gratitude.
MP Harsha de Silva further said that this effort was to safeguard our history and that the refrigerated containers are planned to be kept for three months.
“My father once served as the Head of the Department of National Archives, rendering an important service to this country. I have learned much from him about how valuable history is,” he added. (Newswire)