HALO has been working to clear the village section-by-section, not only removing the landmines but ensuring the water wells are safe so people can return to the land and rebuild their lives. To date, over 300 displaced people have been able to come home and, in 2019, Sasikala, Patimarani, Kantha Samey and their families also returned to the village.
Sasikala
“HALO cleared the explosives out of the well and then we received support from the government to renovate it. We use the well for all our needs, for drinking water and for agriculture and to water the coconut trees we have planted.”
Sasikala, Intherapuram village, Sri Lanka
Sasikala is 36 years old and lives with six members of her family. At the front of their plot of land is the temporary shelter they are using whilst their new home is taking shape with its sturdy concrete walls and tiled roof. To the left is the household’s well – beautifully planted with flowers. Sasilika explains that farming is her family’s way of life, which became impossible when they were displaced during the war. Now they are finally home she will begin growing crops again, using the well to keep them watered.
Kantha Samey
When the fighting reached the village, Kantha Samey fled with her eight children. Sadly, her husband passed away during this time, leaving the family struggling to survive.
“If we tried to rent a house we could only have it for a year, then we would have to move again. It was a very sad time. There was no one to earn money. It was very hard.”
Kantha Samey, Intherapuram village, Sri Lanka
Today she is back on her own land. All eight of her children are now married and live nearby. The family have built a temporary home and created a small fenced garden where Makulaxsumi, her son’s wife, is carefully watering the vegetables.
“We couldn’t use the well until HALO made it safe because we were worried there might be explosives in it. Once we have fenced our land we will grow coconut trees, tomato and chilli. We use the water to wash and water our crops.”
Kantha Samey, Intherapuram village, Sri Lanka
Patimarani
Patimarani moved back to the village six months ago with her son, Nerosan, and father-in-law. Nerosan describes how hard it was to find work when the family were displaced but now they are home they are able to begin growing food to support themselves.
“We use the well for cultivation. We now have a home garden, we are growing, groundnut and vegetables such as long beans.”
Nelantherah, Intherapuram village, Sri Lanka
Good hygiene is impossible without access to clean water; families cannot thrive, health is compromised and lives are put at risk. By clearing the dangerous debris of war that cuts off this vital supply we can help ensure no family has to live without clean water.