The data processed by the National Census and Statistics Department indicates that 40 per cent of the people have fallen below the poverty line. They point out that the inflation in crisis-ridden Sri Lanka shows an upward trend adding misery to the already burdened people.
In addition, the latest statistics show that 80 per cent of the population is facing difficulties due to the current economic crisis that has embraced the country.
The department has computed the average income of a family before the economic crisis, and the Covid pandemic stood at 76414 per month. However, there are differences in income observed among the urban, rural and estate sectors.
According to the surveys conducted by the department, the average monthly of 20 per cent of people who are languishing below the poverty line stands at rupees 17572 a month, and another 40 per cent representing the same category earn rupees 26931 per month.
Though the rich indicated an income close to rupees 196 289, that also was nominal according to the department. It also points out that the buying power of the rich has declined drastically due to inflationary trends and the virtual collapse of the country.
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