A-PAD SL on the Ground: Conditions and Needs at the Ramboda Temporary Shelter Site

On 13th February, the A-PAD SL team conducted a needs assessment visit to a temporary shelter established at a playground in Ramboda, Kotmale. A total of 63 families were affected and displaced from landslide-prone locations identified by the National Building Research Organisation following the impacts of Cyclone Ditwah. While several families have temporarily relocated to rental houses or are staying with relatives, those without alternative accommodation options are currently residing at the playground site. The displaced families have been affected for over a month and are awaiting permanent housing solutions.

Access to the camp remains challenging due to severe road damage, with heavy vehicles unable to reach the site and the upper access road completely blocked by a massive rockfall. Basic facilities including drinking water, electricity, washrooms, and mattresses have been provided; however, gaps remain. The assessment identified limited child-specific supplies, insufficient warm clothing for the cold climate, lack of shower facilities, and the absence of a common kitchen space. Families currently cook outdoors using firewood near the tents, posing safety risks, particularly during windy or rainy conditions. Immediate attention to these needs is essential to improve safety and living conditions.