The Security Forces have captured and taken over Dharmapuram on the A35 road and they are pressing towards Puthukudiyirupu from the West. And the Security Forces are also advancing from South of Oddisudan. Hundreds of people (IDP) are trapped between Visvamadu and Puthukudiyiruppu. Many people are dying or seriously getting wounded during this confrontation from Aerial bombings and firing of artillery shells. In order to assist the people to escape to safe areas, I am appealing to you to open a safe corridor on the A35 road for the people to reach Paranthan and Kilinochchy which is only 15 Km from Dharmapuram This is to be done with the collaboration of the GA of this area.
Similarly another safe corridor should be opened through Nedunkerny or A34 road to Puliankulam or Mankulam. with the assistance of the Mulaithivu G.A.Time is short and the Safe corridors must be opened without any delay. May I appeal also to the Commanders of the 57 Div.58 Div of Security
Forces and other Task Forces to collaborate with the UN agencies and receive the fleeing refugees with warm trust and confidence , caring for their immediate humanitarian needs. This way many lives of the innocent people can be saved.
Our inactivity at this time will merit the blame of the world that the UN agencies just watched when innocent IDPs were being killed in Vanni. While appreciating very much the valuable services of the ICRC and UN Agencies to the IDPs of Vanni, we are appealing to you consider the above requests at this grave time. I and my priests are willing to help you in this urgent life-saving work.
The thousands of people who were at Vadamaracy East have taken refuge in Mirusuvil after much risks and hardships on their way.
Yours truly,
Rt.Rev.Dr.Thomas Savundaranayagam
Bishop of Jaffna
15-01-2009
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