World Bank approves $110 million for Sri Lanka road reconstruction

The World Bank has approved $110 million to repair and reconstruct 600 kilometers of roads in Sri Lanka that were severely damaged by Cyclone Ditwah. The funding, provided through the International Development Association’s Crisis Response Window, aims to restore access to markets, schools, and health facilities in the most affected communities.

Cyclone Ditwah, which struck in November 2025, caused an estimated $4.1 billion in damages across Sri Lanka, affecting nearly two million people. The transport sector alone sustained approximately $973 million in damage. The new financing extends the Inclusive Connectivity and Development Project by three years, bringing the total World Bank investment in the operation to $610 million.

The project will focus on climate-resilient reconstruction, including improved drainage and landslide protection. It is expected to benefit over 830,000 people directly, create approximately 5,671 jobs, and reconnect roughly 22,000 farmers to supply chains.

A World Bank assessment noted that responsibility for Sri Lanka’s road network is currently fragmented across the Ministry of Transport, nine Provincial Councils, and more than 300 local authorities. This fragmentation has been cited as a factor that weakens planning, maintenance, and asset management, leaving sub-national roads particularly vulnerable to disaster damage.