According to HUDEC, a number of factors are seriously affecting those people who have returned to their home areas after several years. Many houses have been damaged or destroyed. The lack of water and sanitation facilities are major problems in most areas.
A large section of cultivable land in the peninsula is under military control, particularly in Valikamam west, as are a large number of houses. More than 30 families who settled at Sivankovilady in Thenmaratchy have been ordered by the Army to leave, following the establishment of a new camp at Nunavil East. Where lands are available, the people lack the necessary resources to begin cultivation as a result of long years of displacement. People are reluctant to go into certain areas fearing landmines. Many are being disabled or killed by mines each month. In mid-July, Kumaravel Vijayakumar lost his left leg in a landmine explosion at Palai.
Hospitals in the peninsula face shortages of medicines and medical equipment. There is also an acute shortage of medical personnel. According to reports, doctors of Sri Lankan origin abroad are being encouraged to spend short periods in northern Sri Lanka to assist hospitals. But some doctors say that without proper supply of medicines and equipment, their visits would not be useful.
All resettled refugees are not receiving a resettlement allowance from the government. Of the 7,500 families resettled in Thenmaratchy, only 1,500 have received the resettlement allowance. NGOs have expressed concern that the amount of commodities supplied to refugees has also been reduced.
Regular electricity supply to the peninsula resumed on 7 July after many years. Reports say that a US firm has been contracted for 18 months supply of electricity. The lack of electricity has adversely affected industries, education and health facilities in Jaffna.