Sri Lanka launches national rebuilding program after cyclone damage

COLOMBO, Jan. 13 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka on Tuesday officially kicked off its national rebuilding program to guide the country's recovery and reconstruction following widespread damage caused by Cyclone Ditwah.

The program, known as "Rebuilding Sri Lanka," has been introduced as an urgent national recovery mechanism to address rehabilitation and restoration needs arising from the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which hit the country in late November 2025.

Under the initiative, priority will be given to restoring basic needs, sanitation and health services, rebuilding essential infrastructure, strengthening livelihoods and assets, and revitalizing the domestic economy.

The program also aims to establish digital data systems and decision-support mechanisms, while improving communication and engagement with stakeholders involved in the rebuilding process.

To ensure strategic leadership, coordination and oversight, a special government task force has been established, which will be responsible for providing overall guidance, making strategic decisions, resolving inter-ministerial issues, and directing major funding, recovery and reconstruction decisions. ■