World Bank approves $110 million to rebuild 600 km of cyclone-damaged roads

The World Bank has approved US$110 million to repair and reconstruct 600 kilometers of roads severely damaged by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka.

The financing, announced on September 30, will prioritize roads restoring access to markets, schools and health facilities in the worst-affected communities.

Provided through the International Development Association’s Crisis Response Window, the funding will support reconstruction with improved drainage, landslide protection and engineering designed to withstand extreme weather.

“This is about more than fixing roads. It is about restoring livelihoods, reconnecting farmers to markets and families to essential services,” said Gevorg Sargsyan, World Bank Group country manager for Sri Lanka.

The additional financing extends the ongoing Inclusive Connectivity and Development Project by three years, bringing total World Bank investment under the operation to US$610 million.

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

According to the World Bank, Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka in November 2025, causing an estimated US$4.1 billion in damage and affecting nearly two million people across all 25 districts.

The transport sector sustained approximately US$973 million in damage, with recovery needs estimated at US$1.31 billion. (Newswire)