The Task Force was established to coordinate nationwide recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts following the disaster situation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. It is responsible for ensuring swift and sustainable relief to affected communities, restoring essential infrastructure and implementing long-term development initiatives.
During the meeting, discussions were held on the current progress and future plans of the “Rebuilding Sri Lanka” initiative. Members were also briefed on foreign assistance received so far for the Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund and on the Task Force’s upcoming activities.
Officials noted that a comprehensive assessment report on disaster-affected housing and infrastructure is expected to be completed by the end of this month.
The Prime Minister stressed the need to prioritise individuals currently living in displacement camps when implementing housing programmes for those whose homes were damaged. She also highlighted possible social issues that could arise if displaced persons continue to remain in camps for an extended period.
District Secretaries from affected areas joined the discussion via Zoom, where their concerns, views and proposals were also taken into consideration.
Among those present were Ministers Sunil Handunnetti, A. H. M. H. Abayarathna, Anil Jayantha Fernando and Susil Ranasinghe, along with Deputy Minister of Defence Aruna Jayasekara.
Also attending were Secretary to the President Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Chief of Staff to the President Prabath Chandrakeerthi, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development Harshana Suriyapperuma and Senior Additional Secretary to the President Russel Aponsu, along with other members of the committee.
