Asgiri Mahanayake takes lead in providing drinking water to drought-hit areas

The drinking water distribution programme organised by Ven Daranagama Kusaladhamma Thera of Sambodhi Viharaya in Bauddhaloka Mawatha, took place in Madirigiriya, Polonnaruwa, on August 13.

Chief Guest, Ven. Udugama Sri Buddharakkitha Thera of the Asgiri Chapter, said the whole world was affected by natural disasters such as droughts, floods and famine, but these kinds of incidents rarely happen in Sri Lanka, compared with other countries.

Ven. Buddharakkitha Thera said it was essential for everyone to unite and help our fellow countrymen who are suffering from the extreme drought, and provide them with the best relief we can afford.

“The collection of water has been taking place for almost a week and the Sri Lanka army has extended its maximum support in order to collect and transport the bottled water and plastic tanks collected at the Sambodhi Viharaya,” he said, adding that natural disasters can be prevented by following a pious lifestyle.

Ven. Kusaladhamma Thera said both Buddhist and non-Buddhist donors kindly handed over 200,000 bottles of water and over 300 tanks for the benefit of villagers in drought hit areas.

He also thanked Defense Secretary and Chief Dayaka of Sambodhi Viharaya, Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the Eastern Commander Major General Lal Perera for extending their support for this worthy cause.