Floods

Harnessing innovation and resilience could transform it into a global powerhouse; inaction risks deeper food insecurity and economic fragility for millions.

The 2025 monsoon season arrived with unusual ferocity, delivering 8 per cent more rainfall than the long-term average across the Indian subcontinent.

As of mid-December, authorities reported 643 deaths and 183 people still missing. More than 107,000 homes were damaged or destroyed, making shelter one of the most urgent needs.

As India’s financial and material aid begins to flow into rebuilding efforts across Sri Lanka, the focus has gradually shifted from emergency response to sustainable reconstruction and resilience building.

Long-term climate risk, particularly heat exposure, also carries socio-economic consequences, threatening jobs, livelihoods and economic growth if unchecked.

International partners and humanitarian organisations have indicated their willingness to stay engaged for the long haul. Plans are underway for coordinated rebuilding efforts, assessment of ongoing needs, and development of resilient infrastructure to withstand future disasters.

Nearly 20 per cent of the country’s land area was inundated during Cyclone Ditwah, causing widespread devastation across all provinces.

Experts point out that recovery fund and planned reconstruction must also prioritise restoring agricultural capacity, irrigation and roads – because Sri Lanka’s food security and export-based economy depend critically on them.