i was in galle yesterday and the devastation along the coast is heartbreaking and unbelievable. thousands of houses and buildings have been smashed to their foundations by the force of the waves.

yet, i saw signs of hope. people were returning to their non houses, sitting among the ruins, chatting, cleaning up and so on. in some places a single light bulb hung from a pole in the ground shedding light on the ruins.

just past abalangoda lie the remains of the death train and the army has moved in heavy equipment and tanks to lift it up.  children were playing cricket on the beaches and on land laid bear by the waters. i had grit in my eyes.

actually people are pretty amazing in more ways than one.

Andrew Samuel, also travelling travelling south from Colombo  –Jan 4th
Andrew, is volunteering with an NGO called Community Development Services. He can be reached at 94-777-341110 (mobile)

We will be assessing areas in Wadduwa, Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Galle, Matara, Tangalle and Hambantota and areas in between.

I’m more keen in developing a long term framework for capacity building, trauma management and mental rehabilitation work. Whilst physical needs are still important, in the months to come capacity building will be the priority.