FINANCIAL CHRONICLE – The recovery efforts in Sri Lanka’s central highlands following Cyclone Ditwah have been hindered by a lack of coordination among the institutions responsible for construction, land, agriculture, livestock, and conservation. In response, President Anura Dissanayake has emphasized the need for a ‘new integrated framework’.

“Efforts are underway to establish a new integrated framework, bringing together all relevant parties to swiftly safeguard and rebuild the Central Highlands,” stated President Dissanayake, as reported by his media division. He made these remarks during a meeting with representatives from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and both government and private sector institutions.

The discussion highlighted the urgency of developing a national policy to secure the Central Highlands, according to the Presidential Media Division (PMD). It was also noted that there is a need for an Authority, empowered under existing legislation, to oversee these activities. President Dissanayake directed officials to expedite the implementation of this initiative.

Representatives from ADB and UNDP stressed the importance of maintaining a dedicated financial fund to support these efforts. (Colombo/Jan22/2026)