As of the morning of 05 December 2025, Sri Lanka’s post-cyclone recovery efforts have entered a critical phase, marked by rapid infrastructure restoration, international solidarity, and strategic economic planning. Cyclone Ditwah, which struck in late November, caused widespread damage to transport networks, electricity infrastructure, and livelihoods across multiple districts. However, coordinated efforts from government agencies, foreign allies, corporate donors, and national institutions have accelerated the recovery process.
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Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund: A Beacon of Solidarity
The Government’s ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund has received over Rs. 697 million in donations, reflecting strong international and diaspora support. According to the Ministry of Finance, Rs. 635 million was contributed through the Bank of Ceylon account, while more than Rs. 61 million came via Central Bank channels. These funds were sourced from 30,470 individual contributions spanning over 33 countries, underscoring the global community’s commitment to Sri Lanka’s recovery.
This financial support is being directed toward emergency relief, infrastructure restoration, and public service continuity. The fund’s transparency and scale have positioned it as a central pillar in the nation’s rebuilding strategy.
| In addition, donors wishing to make direct deposits into foreign currency accounts of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka may do so through the accounts mentioned in President’s Media Division. Account details for foreign currency deposits: [Link] |
Electricity Restoration: Progress and Sacrifice
The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has made significant strides in restoring power across the country. Out of approximately 3.9 million disrupted connections, more than 80% have now been restored. During the disaster, 16,771 transformers became inactive, and 14,549 have already been repaired. The remaining disconnections are being addressed with urgency.
Deputy General Manager Noel Priyantha, speaking at the Disaster Management Centre, confirmed the progress while expressing regret over the loss of an electricity worker during restoration operations. The CEB’s efforts have been instrumental in stabilising daily life and enabling other recovery activities.
Diplomatic Support: Maldives Stands with Sri Lanka
In a show of regional solidarity, Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu pledged full support to Sri Lanka during a phone call with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. President Muizzu assured that Sri Lanka “will not be left alone at any time,” offering assistance for both relief and rebuilding efforts.
President Dissanayake expressed gratitude for the Maldives’ consistent support, describing it as a source of strength during hardship. This diplomatic gesture reinforces the importance of regional partnerships in climate-related disaster response.
Infrastructure Repairs: Presidential Directive in Action
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has directed urgent repairs to damaged roads and bridges. In a meeting with the Ministry of Transport & Highways and the Ministry of Finance, officials reported that 247 km of A- and B-grade roads were damaged, and 40 bridges destroyed. As of 05 December, 175 of the 256 affected road sections have been reopened.
The President emphasised the need to restore critical transport routes to support emergency operations and help communities resume daily activities. These repairs are vital for logistics, healthcare access, and economic continuity.
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Indian Air Force Deployment: Tactical Relief Support
On 04 December, a C-17 Globemaster aircraft from the Indian Air Force landed in Sri Lanka, carrying Bailey bridge components and specialist personnel. The modular bridges can be configured for long-span or multiple shorter structures, with a 110-foot two-way bridge ready for immediate deployment.
The consignment also included five dinghy boats to assist with search, rescue, and transport operations in flooded areas. This tactical support is aimed at restoring road connectivity in regions severely affected by flooding and landslides.
Economic Resilience: Central Bank’s Strategic Outlook
Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) addressed the Sri Lanka Economic and Investment Summit 2025, assuring that the country is better prepared to absorb economic shocks than in previous crises. CBSL stands ready to provide liquidity support to the banking system if needed.
Dr. Weerasinghe highlighted the existence of sufficient macroeconomic buffers; fiscal, monetary, and external designed specifically for climate-related and external shocks. Operational channels and donation accounts have been activated to ensure timely relief disbursement. This strategic outlook has helped ease concerns among business leaders and investors.
Corporate Solidarity: Apple’s Global Contribution
Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed concern for those affected by severe storms in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. Apple has pledged donations toward relief and rebuilding efforts, reinforcing global corporate solidarity with Sri Lanka and its regional neighbours.
This contribution adds to the growing list of international support and reflects the role of multinational corporations in disaster recovery and humanitarian aid.
National Institutions: Sri Lanka Cricket’s Rs. 300 Million Donation
Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), under the leadership of President Shammi Silva and the Executive Committee, has donated Rs. 300 million to the Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund. The donation supports emergency relief and restoration of essential public services for families affected by Cyclone Ditwah.
SLC reaffirmed its commitment to national progress and disaster recovery, highlighting the role of iconic institutions in economic resilience and public solidarity.
Conclusion: A Nation Rebuilding with Purpose
Sri Lanka’s recovery from Cyclone Ditwah is unfolding with urgency, coordination, and compassion. From infrastructure repairs and electricity restoration to diplomatic support and corporate donations, the country is mobilising every resource to rebuild lives and systems.
The southern provinces remain safe and open for tourism, while national agencies continue to prioritise safety, transparency, and resilience. With over Rs. 697 million in donations, strategic economic planning from CBSL, and support from regional and global partners, Sri Lanka is not just rebuilding, it is preparing to emerge stronger.
As of 05 December 2025, the message is clear: Sri Lanka is recovering, resilient, and ready to move forward.
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