SL President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to Launch National Program to Restore Storm-Damaged Religious Sites

By Lions Roar Aotearoa South Asia Bureau

COLOMBO, SRI LANKA (Tuesday, January 27, 2026) — President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is set to inaugurate a major national restoration initiative tomorrow (January 27) to repair over 1,000 religious, cultural, and archaeological sites damaged by the devastating Cyclone Ditwa.

The program, titled “Godanamagu Adhishtanaye Sanhinda” (Rebuilding the Harmony of Determination), will be spearheaded by the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs. The goal is to quickly restore these sacred spaces to their former glory, ensuring devotees can resume their religious observances.

📅 Launch Schedule: Wednesday, Jan 27

The President will personally lead the launch at two key historic locations:

10:00 AM – Gampola: The program kicks off at the Sri Bodhirukkharama Viharaya in Peacock Hill Colony, Doragala.
3:00 PM – Matale: The afternoon session will commence at the Kawatayamuna Ancient Rajamaha Viharaya.

🏛️ Preserving Heritage Amidst Disaster

Cyclone Ditwa caused widespread destruction, affecting more than 1,000 sites of religious and historical significance across the island. The government’s restoration plan emphasizes three core pillars:

Speedy Restoration: Urgent repairs to ensure sites are safe and functional for the public as soon as possible.
Preservation of Value: All reconstruction will be carried out while strictly maintaining the original archaeological and historical integrity of the sites.
Collaborative Leadership: The projects will be guided by the Maha Sangha and other religious leaders, ensuring a respectful and inclusive approach.

📊 Impact & Response: Cyclone Ditwa Restoration

Feature	Details
Program Name	“Godanamagu Adhishtanaye Sanhinda”
Total Impacted Sites	1,000+ (Buddhist, Hindu, Christian, and Islamic sites)
Lead Ministry	Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs
Primary Goal	Swift restoration of places of worship to serve devotees.
Launch Locations	Gampola (Peacock Hill) and Matale (Kawatayamuna).

🤝 A United Effort

President Dissanayake has called for a “collective contribution” from all sectors of society—including government agencies, community volunteers, and private donors—to ensure the success of the project. The government aims to demonstrate resilience through unity, turning the aftermath of a natural disaster into an opportunity to strengthen national harmony.