An inspection visit has uncovered that 1,556 metric tons of rice, dates, and lentils, which were received in 2023 for distribution to impoverished families and school children under the World Food Programme, are currently rotting at the Veyangoda Government District Warehouse.
The discovery came during an inspection led by Deputy Minister of National Integration, Munir Mauler, and Member of Parliament Ruwanmapalagama, after the issue was brought to light.
The public representatives have stated that appropriate actions will be taken, as the food items found in the Veyangoda District Food Warehouse are now deemed unfit for human consumption.
Officials informed the team that some of the food items were previously distributed among school students and the public on various occasions. However, the distribution was halted after the school holidays. During their inspection of the records, the Deputy Minister and the Member of Parliament found that 1,556 metric tons of rice, lentils, and dates, which are no longer suitable for consumption, are still stored in the warehouse.
In response, the Deputy Minister and the Member of Parliament immediately contacted the Gampaha District Secretary to take the necessary action regarding the deteriorating food stock.
