The number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the relief villages in Vavuniya district has dropped to 23,570 as of today (Sep. 29). This number does not include 3872 IDPs who have not returned on the date given by them after leaving the relief villages under the temporary pass system.

The total 23,570 IDPs in Vavunya include 14, 964 IDPs in five zones and 8606 persons who are on free movement yet to return on the dates given by them, the Ministry of Resettlement stated.

In addition, 710 IDPs remain in Jaffna Ramavil IDP centre which brings the total number of IDPs in Vavuniya and Jaffna to 24, 280.

Measures have been taken to resettle another several batches of IDPs in several areas in Kilinochchi and Mullativu. Accordingly, nine hundred (900) IDPs in Menik Farm relief village will be resettled in Vishavamadu, Pudukudi-irippu today (Sep. 29), the Chief Coordinating Officer of the Competent Office for IDPs in Vavuniya, Colonel Vadugodapitiya said.

In addition, nearly 800 IDPs who were with host families in Karachchi and Shanthapuram in Kilinochchi will be resettled in their places of origin on 15th October, the Colonel stated.