The government is considering a relief mechanism for people who lose their jobs due to the impact of El Niño, as authorities step up preparations to address the effects of the prevailing climatic conditions.
The proposal was discussed at the fourth meeting of the special Cabinet subcommittee appointed to coordinate the government’s response to El Niño, according to the President’s Media Division.
The subcommittee, chaired by Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi, met with the relevant officials’ committee at the Presidential Secretariat on Aug. 31.
Particular attention was given to the risk of job losses among communities affected by El Niño and possible measures to provide relief to those who lose their livelihoods.
Officials also discussed steps to minimise the potential impact on vegetable and fruit cultivation and measures to prevent shortages of vegetables in the country.
Six districts are currently affected by El Niño-related conditions, and the committee reviewed ongoing programmes aimed at maintaining an uninterrupted water supply to allow communities in those areas to continue their daily activities.
The committee also decided to hold a media briefing on Sept. 4 on preparations for the upcoming Maha cultivation season.
A separate discussion will be held via Zoom with district secretaries and the chairpersons of district coordinating committees in the six affected districts.
The special Cabinet subcommittee is scheduled to meet again on Sept. 14. (Newswire)