2026 to see record state-assisted housing construction

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says 2026 will mark the year in which the highest number of houses are built with state assistance in Sri Lanka’s history.

He explained that approximately 20,000–25,000 new houses will be constructed for those affected by disasters, and together with the 31,000 houses already planned under the Housing Development Authority, a total of 50,000–55,000 houses will be built this year.

The President made these remarks at the launch of PROJECT 5M under Rebuilding Sri Lanka, held in Alubadda village, Malbeligala, in the Galnewa Divisional Secretariat of Anuradhapura District today (09 Jan). 

Under the first phase of the programme to rebuild homes lost in Cyclone Ditwah, families whose houses were completely destroyed and certified for reconstruction at the same location will receive new homes. 

Accordingly, compensation and construction work began for 26 such houses in Galnewa, Palagala, Palugaswewa, Ipalogama, and Thirappane divisions of Anuradhapura District, under the President’s leadership.

The President pointed out that never before in Sri Lanka’s history have leaders intervened to provide such large compensation, and emphasized that the present government has resolved to stand by the people and ensure they enjoy a higher standard of living than before.

He further noted that to provide a good quality of life, people need decent income, good education for children, healthy lives, proper housing, and mental well-being, and stressed that the government is committed to fulfilling these five essentials.

“Therefore, for the first time in history, we have presented a major plan to rebuild disaster‑affected areas. Rs. 500 billion has been allocated for recovery in 2026, with Rs. 72 billion already allocated in December 2025. We must stand by the people and rebuild the economy. Compensation is being paid for crop losses, including amounts never before given to farmers. Relief is also being provided to those in the livestock and industries. Data is being collected from other affected sectors. This government has resolved to stand by the people,” the President said, addressing the event. 

President Dissanayake further said the government has focused particularly on housing. 

“Reports show about 6,000 houses were completely destroyed, and another 17,000–18,000 are uninhabitable. Thus, about 20,000–25,000 new houses will be built. Additionally, Rs. 31,000 houses have been allocated in the 2026 budget. Under the Housing Development Authority, 10,000 houses are planned for those unable to rebuild. Sixteen years after the end of the war, some people still live in displacement camps. Rs. 2 billion has been allocated to build 2,500 houses for them. Under Indian assistance, houses will also be built for plantation workers. Altogether, 31,000 houses were planned, and now, with the disaster response, another 20,000–25,000 will be added. These homes will be built to provide people with a better life than before,” he added. (Newswire)

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