Recovery efforts to be accelerated after Cyclone Ditwah despite global economic challenges

Colombo, March 30 (Daily Mirror) - Steps are being taken to accelerate recovery and relief operations following Cyclone Ditwah, amid ongoing global economic challenges, the Prime Minister’s Media Division said.

A key discussion on speeding up recovery measures and assisting affected communities was held on March 28 at Temple Trees, with the participation of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya and representatives from civil society organizations.

During the meeting, Chief of Staff to the President and Commissioner General of Essential Services Mr. Prabath Chandrakeerthi briefed the Prime Minister on the current status of government relief efforts, including compensation payments being processed through District Secretariats and updates on safety camps established for displaced families.

Special attention was drawn to the needs of the estate sector Malaiyaha Tamil community, particularly individuals without legal land ownership, in accessing government assistance and compensation. Officials noted that a policy decision, in coordination with the Ministry of Plantation and Community Infrastructure, is required to address these concerns.

Secretary to the Ministry of Housing, Construction and Water Supply Engineer L. Kumudu Lal Bogahawatta outlined plans to accelerate long-term recovery efforts linked to disaster damage expected in 2025. These include the construction of 20,000 new houses, the renovation of 115,000 partially damaged homes, and financial assistance of up to Rs. 5 million for individuals who already own safe land to rebuild their houses. Plans are also underway to develop apartment complexes with public facilities in major urban areas.

Authorities further highlighted that the physical, psychological, and social well-being of affected communities—especially women, children, and persons with special needs—will be continuously monitored through civil society organizations, special committees, and sub-committees.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stressed that housing reconstruction efforts over the past four months have focused on building homes in safer and better-equipped locations with access to urban facilities. She emphasized the importance of maintaining close communication with affected communities and ensuring that rebuilding takes place in areas less vulnerable to future disasters.