The government is considering relief for people who lose their jobs or livelihoods due to El Niño-related conditions as it steps up preparations to deal with the effects of the climate conditions.
The proposal came up at the fourth meeting of the special Cabinet subcommittee set up to coordinate the government’s response to El Niño.
The subcommittee met with the relevant officials’ committee at the Presidential Secretariat on August 31. Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi chaired the meeting.
Officials focused on the risk of job losses among communities affected by the current conditions.
They also discussed possible relief for people who lose their livelihoods.
Food production also comes under focus
The officials reviewed measures to limit the impact on vegetable and fruit cultivation.
They also looked at ways to prevent vegetable shortages in the local market.
Six districts are currently affected by El Niño-related conditions.
The committee also reviewed ongoing work to maintain an uninterrupted water supply in the affected areas.
The water supply is aimed at helping communities continue their daily activities during the current conditions.
The government will also brief the media on preparations for the upcoming Maha cultivation season.
The special Cabinet subcommittee decided to hold the media briefing on September 4.
A separate Zoom discussion will bring together district secretaries and chairpersons of district coordinating committees from the six affected districts.
The government will use the discussions to review preparations and the needs of the affected areas.
The special Cabinet subcommittee will meet again on September 14.
The government has not yet announced the details of the proposed job-loss relief mechanism, including who would qualify or how much assistance they could receive.
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Last modified: September 2, 2026
