President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has announced that the government has begun discussions with the World Bank to prepare a detailed assessment of the damage caused by recent adverse weather and to identify the financial requirements for reconstruction.
The President revealed that the World Bank has already been commissioned to conduct the Global Rapid Post-Disaster Damage Estimation (GRADE), with the government expecting to receive the assessment within approximately two weeks.
President Dissanayake said the government plans to initiate a medium- and long-term recovery program, integrating both public and private sectors to mobilize resources for rebuilding essential infrastructure such as highways and irrigation systems damaged in the disaster.
He further stated that a fund will be established, supported by contributions from all sectors, and a Joint Management Committee comprising public and private sector representatives will be appointed, with Cabinet approval, to oversee the fund.
Highlighting the scale of the devastation, the President noted that the damage from floods and landslides is far greater than what is visible on the surface, and the Treasury alone cannot shoulder the full financial burden of recovery.
Funds for reconstruction could be mobilized through multiple channels, including local contributions, Sri Lankan expatriates, foreign governments, international organizations, and business associations. The appointed committee will coordinate and manage these efforts.
President Dissanayake also detailed the destruction caused by the disaster, including houses, farmlands, plantations, highways, bridges, government buildings, schools, and electricity poles. He added that landslides have caused extensive damage to road networks, which will require major rehabilitation.
