World Bank approves $110m for cyclone-hit roads in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO: The World Bank on Wednesday approved $110 million to help Sri Lanka repair and reconstruct 600 km of roads severely damaged by Cyclone Ditwah.

Issuing a press release, the World Bank said the financing will prioritise roads that restore access to markets, schools and health facilities in communities most severely affected by the cyclone.

The reconstructed roads will incorporate climate-resilient features, including improved drainage systems, landslide protection measures and updated engineering standards designed to withstand extreme weather events.

The new financing will extend the ongoing Inclusive Connectivity and Development Project by three years, bringing total World Bank investment in Sri Lanka's transport connectivity under the operation to $610 million.

The investment is expected to directly benefit more than 830,000 people and reach nearly 2 million people across eight districts. It is also expected to create about 5,671 new or improved jobs in reconstruction and maintenance and benefit nearly 22,000 tea, vegetable and paddy farmers by reconnecting them with buyers and supply chains.

Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka in November 2025, causing an estimated $4.1 billion in damage and affecting nearly 2 million people across all 25 districts.

The transport sector sustained severe damage, including nearly 2,000 km of provincial roads, more than 3,500 km of rural roads and close to 700 bridges. Recovery needs in the sector are estimated at $1.31 billion.

By RSS/Xinhua