Sri Lanka's Cyclone Recovery Fund Exceeds LKR 8.5 Billion with Global Aid

• Sri Lanka has amassed over LKR 8.5 billion (USD 27.5 million) in foreign contributions for post-Cyclone Ditwah reconstruction efforts.
• A total of 47 countries have provided aid, with the US contributing LKR 1 billion and Australia following closely.
• Cyclone Ditwah, which hit in late November, caused over 640 deaths and extensive damage to infrastructure, crops, and tea estates.
• India pledged a USD 450 million assistance package, including USD 350 million in concessional Lines of Credit and USD 100 million in grants.
• The UNFPA supported the restoration of Chilaw General Hospital's operating theatre, damaged by flooding, to ensure maternal and newborn care.

Why It Matters: Sri Lanka's cyclone recovery fund has surpassed LKR 8.5 billion, bolstered by significant international aid.