🏛️ Cabinet Approves Rs. 232M for Post-Cyclone Religious Site Restoration

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved Rs. 232.07 million in available funds to restore 144 additional religious sites damaged by Cyclone Ditwah, supporting community and cultural recovery. • Overall Impact: A total of 1,328 places of worship across multiple faiths were damaged by disasters associated with Cyclone Ditwah. • Breakdown of Affected Sites: • 758 Buddhist temples • 272 Hindu religious places • 199 Muslim religious places • 99 Christian religious places • Progress & Funding Breakdown: • Renovation is already underway at 256 sites using Rs. 929.69 million. • Initial funding sources include the Buddha Sasana Fund, Central Cultural Fund, and Anagarika Dharmapala Foundation. • Total allocations include Rs. 329.62 million previously approved via Cabinet decisions on 27 April 2026 and 15 June 2026. • Government Action: The proposal was submitted by Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Minister Prof. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi to ensure damaged locations can resume active religious and cultural functions.