Northern civilians receive an ambulance water craft from the Navy

An ambulance water craft, built by the Sri Lanka Navy on the request of Governor of the Northern Province, Hon. H.M.G.S. Palihakkara for the benefit of civilians in the northern islands was ceremonially handed over to His Excellency the President Maithripala Sirisena by the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence Mr. Karunasena Hettiarachchi at Killinochchi on 5th October 2015. His Excellency the President in turn handed over the craft to the Director for Health Services of Northern Province, Dr. (Mrs.) S.R. Jude who accepted the craft on behalf of the Governor of the Northern Province. The Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development, Hon. Mahinda Amaraweera, the State Minister of Defence Hon. Ruwan Wijewardene, the Minister of Health and Indigenous Medicine, Social Services and Rahabilitation, Probation and Childcare Services and Women's Affairs of Northern Province, Hon. Dr. Pathmanathan Sathiyalingam and several officials were also present at the occasion.

The 47.5 feet long craft, built under the directives and guidance of the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Ravindra Wijeunaratne would be a great relief to transfer patients of northern islets requiring immediate medical attention to hospitals in the mainland.

The purpose-built craft with facilities to accommodate 15 patients was constructed at the Navy’s Inshore Patrol Craft Construction Project (IPCCP) at Welisara, which has carved a niche for its indigenous technology and innovation. It is equipped with three medical beds, two oxygen cylinders, IV stands, BP and patient monitoring facilities and all other necessities. The SLN has spent 37 million rupees on the construction. The special design of the craft will enable her to sail smoothly even in rough seas minimizing any discomfort to the participants due to rapid movement of the craft.

The craft is scheduled to be operated by an SLN crew and secured at the Delft Jetty.