She made these remarks during a meeting held at Temple Trees, where Chairpersons of District Coordination Committees and representatives from disaster-affected areas were briefed on accelerating the “Rebuilding Sri Lanka” programme.
The Prime Minister noted that all necessary financial allocations have already been provided to Provincial Councils and instructed authorities to closely monitor progress in damage assessments and rebuilding efforts. She also called for urgent resolution of local-level issues causing delays in compensation payments.
A total of Rs. 500 billion has been allocated for damages caused by the Ditwah cyclone, with all development activities expected to be completed before the end of 2026.
Senior Additional Secretary to the President G.M.R.D. Aponsu stated that the total estimated reconstruction cost stands at approximately USD 3.4 billion. Funds have been distributed across key sectors including housing, agriculture, fisheries, livelihoods, and irrigation.
He further revealed that 99% of the Rs. 25,000 relief allowance and 95% of the Rs. 50,000 resettlement allowance have already been disbursed. Compensation for damaged housing is ongoing, while 99% of temporary relief centres have been closed.
The discussion also highlighted additional relief measures, including financial support for affected schoolchildren, compensation for loss of life, assistance for orphaned children and persons with disabilities, and payments for agricultural losses. Authorities are also working to expedite land allocation for housing and speed up reporting by the National Building Research Organization.
Attention was also given to rebuilding schools, hospitals, and childcare facilities, improving data collection accuracy, and accelerating infrastructure development in affected regions.
Several ministers, parliamentarians, and senior government officials were present at the meeting.
