The Planters’ Association of Ceylon (PA) expresses its 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 dignity of those who live and work on estates remain our foremost priority during this challenging period.
Immediately following the cyclone and associated flooding and landslides, Regional Plantation Companies (RPCs) activated their emergency response and safety protocols across affected estates. Estate management teams worked closely with local authorities to identify high-risk 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.
In parallel, RPCs took steps to stabilise estate operations and living environments. This included clearing debris, assessing damage to housing and estate infrastructure, and restoring basic access routes where possible. Estate medical staff and welfare officers were mobilised to monitor health conditions on the ground, while estate-level communication mechanisms were used to keep workers informed and reassured during the immediate aftermath of the cyclone.
At present, RPCs continue to support affected estate workers and neighbouring communities by facilitating access to essential food supplies, temporary lodging, and medicines. Special attention is being paid to vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Where estate facilities were impacted, interim arrangements have been made to ensure continuity of basic services while longer-term restoration plans are developed.
The identification of the most affected individuals and households is being carried out through close coordination between Estate Management, Divisional Secretaries, and relevant government agencies. Divisional Secretariats remain in regular contact with estate officials to support day-to-day community needs, assist with relief distribution, and guide efforts to restore road access and connectivity to isolated areas. RPCs are also working collaboratively with state agencies and other relevant bodies to ensure that relief and recovery efforts are aligned and effective.
While comprehensive assessments are still underway, preliminary evaluations of damage to estate infrastructure, housing, and cultivations are being conducted with the support of the Plantation Human Development Trust (PHDT) and other state authorities. These assessments will identify both immediate recovery interventions and longer-term rehabilitation planning. At this stage, detailed estimates regarding the full extent of damage and the estates most severely affected are yet to be finalised. Estate medical teams remain vigilant for potential post-disaster health concerns, including waterborne diseases, and are working in coordination with public health officials where required.
Transport access to most affected areas is gradually being restored, and the majority of estates are now reachable. While some temporary disruptions to electricity, water supply, or connectivity were experienced in certain localities, services are progressively returning to normal, subject to prevailing weather conditions.
As the country enters another rainy season, the plantation sector is taking proactive steps to strengthen preparedness. With guidance from Divisional Secretaries and the PHDT, RPCs are reviewing risk-prone locations, reinforcing early warning and evacuation procedures, and ensuring that communities living in vulnerable areas can be relocated if necessary. Temporary closures and precautionary measures are being implemented where safety considerations demand it.
The PA recognises the resilience demonstrated by the plantation sector in responding to past crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and remains confident in the collective capacity of RPCs, workers, and partner institutions to navigate the current situation responsibly. The Association reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding estate communities and working collaboratively with all stakeholders as recovery efforts continue and normalcy is restored.
