Govt to build 31,000 houses following $4.1 bn disaster losses, Says President

By Poojathmi Rivithma

Colombo, January 9 (Daily Mirror) - President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced that the government plans to build 31,000 new houses after the World Bank estimated Sri Lanka’s disaster-related losses at USD 4.1 billion.

Speaking on the need for stronger planning and support to aid recovery, the President highlighted that Sri Lanka recorded its highest budget surplus since 1977, boosted by growth in tourism and remittances from citizens working abroad in 2025. He stressed, however, that a robust economy is essential to withstand natural disasters.

President Dissanayake noted that about 6,000 houses were completely destroyed, leaving nearly 18,000 people displaced, as many damaged homes remain unsafe for habitation. A comprehensive report on the damage is still being prepared.

To address the crisis, around 25,000 new houses will be built in safe areas to relocate families living in landslide-prone zones. The 2026 Budget includes provisions to construct 31,000 new houses, supporting affected families while strengthening disaster preparedness for the future.