Sri Lanka’s cabinet has sanctioned a funding agreement of $200 million from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) aimed at a project for post-cyclone rehabilitation and support for livelihoods, as announced by Minister Nalinda Jayatissa. This decision follows the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which impacted the country in November 2025.
Jayatissa informed the media that the cyclone inflicted severe damage on crucial national infrastructure, including highways, railways, and irrigation systems, alongside disrupting various economic activities and livelihoods.
In light of the extensive restoration needs, the ADB has agreed to the Sri Lankan government’s request for financial assistance through a project designated as the ‘Post Ditwah Cyclone Renovation and Livelihood Assistance Project.’
The funding will be sourced from two areas: $100 million will come from the ADB’s permanent general capital resources, while the remaining $100 million will be drawn from the bank’s concessionary general capital resources, culminating in a total of $200 million.
According to Jayatissa, the initiative will focus on three primary areas: the reconstruction of highway infrastructure, the rebuilding of irrigation systems, and the restoration of livelihoods.
This funding arrangement is in addition to a loan increment that the cabinet also approved during the same week. Jayatissa emphasized that, unlike prior administrations, the current National People’s Power government is committed to securing loans for projects that yield tangible outcomes.
