The first phase of a programme to rebuild bridges damaged by the Ditwah disaster was launched near Bemulla in Gampaha on 1 November 2026.
The Transport Ministry described a two-stage project covering 14 bridges. Nine are included in the first phase, with five more to follow.
China provided Rs. 3,933 million, equivalent to 79 million yuan, as a full grant for the initial phase. Main construction work was scheduled for completion within 18 months.
Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake said damage had affected more than 400 locations across the national road network, placing the bridge work within a wider recovery effort.
An implementation agreement was signed at the launch, with Chinese Ambassador Wei Huaxiang signing for China.
The immediate focus is restoring safe transport connections. The stated construction period remains a project timetable, and the launch does not mean the damaged bridges have already reopened.
