Saudi Arabia Provides Free Eye Surgeries to Sri Lankan Patients

In a remarkable initiative aimed at combating blindness, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center has launched a program to provide free eye surgeries to hundreds of Sri Lankan patients. This program, known as the Saudi Noor Volunteer Program, is taking place from November 4 to November 9 in Walasmulla, a town located on the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka, far from the capital city of Colombo. Following this, the campaign will shift to Kattakundy from November 10 to November 17, where even more patients will receive the much-needed care.

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in Sri Lanka, and many patients face long waiting times for surgery under government programs. In private clinics, the cost of lens replacement procedures can reach up to 100,000 rupees (approximately $340), making it unaffordable for many individuals, especially those from poorer backgrounds. M.S.M. Thassim, the chairman of the Association of Muslim Youths, which is partnering with KSrelief, highlighted the urgent need for such services, stating, "There is big demand since poor people can’t afford surgery privately. There are many cataract patients in Sri Lanka, but the facilities are few, leading to long waiting lists for surgery."

As of November 5, 2024, the program has already completed 400 surgeries in Walasmulla, with an additional 100 planned before the campaign moves to Kattakundy, where another 500 surgeries are scheduled. Some patients had already lost their sight before the intervention of the KSrelief medical team, who have been commended for their friendly and dedicated approach. Thassim expressed the gratitude of the patients, saying, "The patients are full of gratitude to the Saudi government and the King Salman center for the noble intervention that restored their eyesight."

This two-week eye care campaign is part of the Saudi government’s ongoing efforts to address blindness in developing countries. Since 2001, over 31,000 patients in Sri Lanka have benefited from surgeries sponsored by Saudi Arabia, showcasing a commitment to improving health outcomes in regions where access to medical care is limited.

The Saudi Noor Volunteer Program not only provides essential medical services but also brings hope and relief to those suffering from preventable blindness. Such initiatives highlight the importance of international cooperation in addressing health challenges and improving the quality of life for vulnerable populations. As more patients regain their sight, the impact of this program will resonate far beyond the operating room, fostering a brighter future for many in Sri Lanka.