Telethon Raises Over MVR 5 Million To Support Sri Lanka Cyclone Relief

A telethon initiated by the Public Service Media (PSM) to support communities affected by the devastating cyclone that struck Sri Lanka last week has raised more than MVR 5.4 million.

The fundraising event commenced with a special ceremony at the PSM studio at 9:00 am yesterday and will continue until 2:00 pm today. According to PSM, donations collected during the initial seven hours amounted to MVR 2.02 million, comprising MVR 1,441,463.44 and USD 37,502.

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Contributions have been made by state institutions, state-owned enterprises, private companies and members of the public. Significant donations include USD 25,000 from the Bank of Maldives, USD 10,001 from Crown & Champa Resorts, and MVR 300,000 from the People’s National Congress.

Donations are being accepted both in person and online, with options including dedicated Maldivian Rufiyaa and US Dollar bank accounts, QR code payments displayed on television screens, and collection boxes placed at PSM and various locations across Malé and Hulhumalé.

Cyclone Ditwah has resulted in extensive damage across Sri Lanka. The Disaster Management Centre has reported that the death toll has risen to 159, with more than 200 individuals still missing following landslides and flooding caused by severe rainfall. Over 78,000 people have been displaced to state-run welfare centres, with 20,000 homes damaged and significant disruptions to essential services, leaving around one-third of the country without electricity or running water.

The Sri Lankan government has declared a state of emergency to accelerate relief efforts and has sought international assistance. Evacuation orders remain in effect in several areas due to rapidly rising water levels in the Kelani River.