Sri Lanka's Cabinet has approved a substantial reconstruction program to restore fisheries infrastructure devastated by Cyclone Ditwah, with 18 priority projects identified across multiple sector institutions.
The Cabinet of Ministers has given the green light to an Rs. 8.32 billion recovery initiative aimed at rebuilding the fisheries and aquatic resources sector following extensive damage inflicted by Cyclone Ditwah. According to Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, the cyclone caused widespread destruction to fisheries infrastructure, aquaculture facilities, fishery harbours, and various assets managed by key sector institutions.
The government estimates total losses across four major institutions at Rs. 9.50 billion. These institutions—the National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA), the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, the Ceylon Fisheries Corporation, and the Ceylon Fishery Harbours Corporation—have jointly identified 18 reconstruction projects to address the damage and restore critical services to the industry.
Of the approved Rs. 8.32 billion budget, NAQDA will lead 10 projects valued at approximately Rs. 7.01 billion, primarily focused on restoring aquaculture infrastructure and associated facilities. The Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources will concurrently implement seven projects budgeted at around Rs. 1.29 billion to repair damaged fisheries infrastructure and enhance service delivery capabilities. The Cabinet's approval, announced at Tuesday's post-Cabinet media briefing, represents the government's commitment to revitalizing a sector critical to Sri Lanka's economy and food security.
