Sri Lanka’s Storm-Torn Reality Meets a New Wave of Solidarity: “Sahana Yathra” Kicks Off as Floods Threaten a Nation

COLOMBO (News 1st); As the waters rise, so does the resolve — Maharaja Media today launched its nationwide “Sahana Yathra” flood-relief campaign, calling on Sri Lankans from every corner to rally with dry rations, clothing and essential supplies for thousands displaced by what may soon become the worst flooding in over a decade.

📌 What’s unfolding across the island

The disaster toll keeps mounting: as of 28 November, at least 56 people have died and 21 remain missing, while nearly 44,000 individuals from over 12,000 families have been affected.

Thousands of homes lie in ruin: 4 houses completely destroyed, 666 partially damaged — many more remain uninhabitable.

Evacuations are underway across multiple provinces. The rise in water levels — especially in critical river basins — has triggered a nationwide “Red Alert,” with the departments urging those in low-lying zones to relocate without delay.

Transportation, infrastructure and essential services are under severe strain: train services limited, roads blocked by landslides and floods, power outages reported — rail, road and electricity networks all disrupted.

The political machinery has mobilized: A Rs. 1.2 billion rapid-response allocation has been announced by the government to support ongoing relief and rehabilitation efforts.

🛑 Why “Sahana Yathra” matters — and why now

With entire communities uprooted, uncertain rainfall patterns, swelling rivers and looming storm threats (including the newly-formed cyclonic system Cyclone Ditwah), the need for coordinated relief has never been greater.

“Sahana Yathra” is poised to play a critical role — not just as a charitable drive, but as a channel for collective solidarity, mobilizing public goodwill at a moment when state capacity is being tested. The five donation points set up by Maharaja Media across Colombo, Ratmalana, Kandy and Kotahena now serve as vital nodes — offering displaced families hope, a lifeline, and a reminder that even in crisis, there remains compassion.

✅ What this means for readers — and how they can help

Donate essentials: dry rations, clothing, toiletries, bedding — anything that can help displaced families survive the immediate flood aftermath. “Sahana Yathra” has made it easy by listing five public drop-off points.

Stay alert & stay safe: With rivers swollen, forecasts warning of more heavy rain and possible winds up to 90 km/h, vulnerable communities need to heed evacuation orders and stay tuned to official advisories.

Help spread the word: Share the appeal and hotline info widely — social media, neighbourhoods and local communities. Collective awareness can fast-track relief and save lives.