Ferry returns of Sri Lankan refugees from India due to start Wednesday

[UNHCR] UNHCR is expecting the first returns of Sri Lankan refugees by commercial ferry from India to start on Wednesday, 12th October. The returns are part of a voluntary, facilitated repatriation programme, supported by the governments of both India and Sri Lanka. A welcoming ceremony at Colombo port is planned with Sri Lankan government officials,…

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International appeal for safety of Civilians

[BBC] UNHCR has requested the government to allocate more land for the Internally Displaced thousands who may cross over to government controled areas. “So far over thirty six thousand people have crossed over” Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Resettlement & Disaster Relief Services told the BBC. “UNHCR is urging the government to continue to make necessary…

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Up to 85,000 people to flee Sri Lanka war: UNHCR

[Reuters] Up to 85,000 civilians trapped in northeastern Sri Lanka could flee the war zone in coming weeks as the army closes in on rebel-held territory, the United Nations refugee agency said on Friday. The Sri Lankan government has allocated 300 acres of land where the UNHCR can receive up to 42,000 people by the…

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UN aid agencies bring relief to flood-hit northern Sri Lanka

[ UN News Centre ] Three United Nations agencies are offering relief to tens of thousands of Sri Lankans who have been displaced from their homes after floods struck at least five districts in the north of the island nation this week. Aid agencies held a coordination meeting in the town of Jaffna today to…

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