PA says plantations stabilised after Ditwah

THE Planters' Association of Ceylon (PA) yesterday said that Regional Plantation Companies (RPC) moved swiftly to safeguard estate workers and surrounding communities following Cyclone Ditwah, activating emergency protocols, relocating families from high-risk areas, and restoring basic services in coordination with State authorities.

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It added that while access and essential support are being progressively normalised, comprehensive assessments of damage to estate infrastructure, housing, and cultivations are still ongoing.

The PA expressed deep concern for estate workers, their families, and surrounding communities affected by the severe weather conditions caused by Cyclone Ditwah.

"The plantation sector operates across some of the country's most environmentally sensitive and disaster-prone regions, and the safety, wellbeing, and dig nity of those who live and work on estates remain our foremost priority during this challenging period," the PA said in a statement.

Immediately following the cyclone and associated flooding and landslides, RPCs activated their emergency response and safety protocols across affected estates. Estate management teams worked closely with local authorities to identify highrisk zones, particularly areas prone to landslides and flooding.

Families residing in such vulnerable locations were promptly relocated to safer premises, including schools, places of worship, and other community shelters, to minimise risk to life and ensure immediate protection.