Army to reconstruct schools damaged by the Salawa Camp fire: Army Chief

The Army will undertake the reconstruction of schools damaged/destroyed by the fire at the Salawa camp and provide relief including school books, clothing, bags and footwear, a senior military official said.

The move comes as plans are under way to reopen more damaged schools by today, while some damaged schools resumed classes last week.

Army Commander Lt.Gen. Crishanthe De Silva said that, "Army Engineering units have been deployed to reconstruct the damaged schools. We hope we can complete the repairs within a week," he said.

He said they were currently making an assessment of the students' requirements to arrange for their provision.

Western Province Education Minister Ranjith Somawansa told Education Times that 8 schools were damaged by the fire.

"We will resume classes today in four schools not opened last week. Initially, the number turning up for classes may be less, but we want to get them back as soon as possible," he said.

He said principals and teach- ers have been advised to try and resume classes as best as possible.

"Like in the flood affected areas, students can turn up in coloured clothing, as some of them have lost their school uniforms," he said.

He said the ministry too will be sending school textbooks, footwear and uniforms within the next few days.

He said a meeting of the Chief Minister, Government Agent (GA), Assistant GAs Gramasevakas and parents will be held on Monday to provide further relief.

On Friday, Minister Susil Premajayanth met with the Army Chief, Seethawaka Divisional Secretary, local politicians and other officials. (DW)