Do not return the allocated funds; President Anura in Badulla
11-Dec-2025.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has advised that the funds allocated by the government this year for infrastructure development must be fully utilised to complete all related restoration works before 31 December, and that no portion of the allocation should be returned.
He issued this guidance while attending and addressing the District Coordinating Committee meeting held on De 9 at the Uva Provincial Library Auditorium, convened to review progress on plans to restore normalcy and improve essential infrastructure in the disaster-hit Badulla district.
He stated that the government’s objective is to ensure a safe life for every citizen. He added that all institutions share responsibility in ensuring proper supervision in the resettlement process. There is no shortage of funds required to provide relief and to rebuild normal day-to-day life. In this emergency situation, all institutions must act in coordination, without worrying about limitations, to fulfil their responsibilities.
A total of 64,140 individuals from 19,133 families in Badulla district have been affected by the disaster.
418 houses have been completely destroyed, while 7,703 houses have been partially damaged.
The President inquired separately about the restoration of damaged roads, electricity, water supply, telecommunications, irrigation, and other essential infrastructure, as well as the reopening of agriculture, livestock, inland fisheries, healthcare, and education sectors.
The President stressed that road repair work must proceed simultaneously on all roads, without distinguishing between the Road Development Authority, Provincial Road Development Department, or local government roads. He instructed officials to request additional funds if current allocations are insufficient.
He further instructed the preparation and submission of assessments for all roads in the district requiring permanent restoration. Necessary funds can be released to commence this work by January, he said.
Officials reported that 90 percent of the district’s electricity supply, disrupted by the disaster, has now been restored. Work is ongoing to complete the remaining areas, and steps have been taken to restore water
supply wherever needed.
The resumption of educational activities in schools was also discussed. The President instructed Divisional Secretaries to immediately distribute the government’s 15,000-rupee allowance for affected schoolchildren.
A total of 6,711 acres of farmland in Badulla district have been damaged. The President instructed officials to assess affected farmers and land extents, provide compensation immediately, and restart cultivation.
He also instructed irrigation officials to arrange temporary water supply to farmlands so that cultivation can resume in the main Maha season.
He announced that 25,000 rupees will be provided through the Department of Cultural Affairs for the cleaning of damaged temples and religious sites, and that this proposal will go before the Cabinet this week.
The meeting also discussed compensation for destroyed and damaged houses and the resettlement of affected families. The President emphasized the need for mental-health support programmes for people living in temporary shelters. He expressed gratitude to the armed forces, government officials, and the public for their tireless dedication.
