Mannar GA SM Croos says that in late August the Army at Uyilankulam prevented refugees crossing into government-controlled territory, fearing unmanageable numbers. There is a shortage of fuel and the price of kerosene has shot up from Rs 27 a litre to Rs 50. The hospital in Army-controlled Murunkan, which serves over 20,000 people, including many refugees, has only one doctor who is present only two hours a day. People say deaths could be avoided if permanent doctors are appointed to the hospital. On Mannar Island, dry rations for June and July have not been issued forcing refugees to beg for food.
Official apathy is said to be the reason for the delay.