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India is awaiting a response from Sri Lanka regarding a proposal to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) on land connectivity between the two countries, Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha said on Tuesday.
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists, Jha clarified that the idea for a land connectivity project had originated from Sri Lanka, not India. He noted that India remains open and supportive of the proposal and is currently waiting for the Sri Lankan government to respond to the request for initiating the DPR.
“Our proposal to conduct a detailed project report is still on the table. We are awaiting a response from the Sri Lankan government. It is important to remember that this was originally a Sri Lankan proposal,” Jha said, adding that India is willing to move forward once clarity is received.
Addressing questions on power grid connectivity between the two countries, the High Commissioner said that discussions have already taken place and technical aspects have been reviewed. He added that work is now underway to develop a financial framework for implementation, although progress has slowed due to the immediate focus on Cyclone Ditwah relief efforts.
“When India’s External Affairs Minister visited Sri Lanka, discussions were largely centred on cyclone response. Financial modalities for connectivity projects will be revisited in due course,” Jha explained. He also emphasized that there is a strong commitment from the Sri Lankan government, as the projects offer clear economic and energy benefits.
In his opening remarks, the High Commissioner outlined India’s extensive assistance to Sri Lanka following Cyclone Ditwah, highlighting the country’s importance under India’s Neighbourhood First and MAHASAGAR policies. India has announced a USD 450 million assistance package, comprising USD 350 million in concessional Lines of Credit and USD 100 million in grants.
The assistance focuses on five key areas:
Rehabilitation of roads, railways and bridges
Construction and repair of damaged houses
Support for health and education infrastructure
Agricultural recovery and food security
Strengthening disaster response and preparedness
Jha said that two bridges built under the assistance programme are set to be inaugurated soon, while restoration work on the Northern Railway line will commence shortly. He added that nearly 200 RO water purification plants will be installed in affected areas, along with the supply of temporary shelter materials for displaced families.
Additionally, proposals are being finalized to allocate a USD 50 million grant to repair fully and partially damaged houses. India is also working on finalizing terms for INR-denominated Lines of Credit, which will support the rebuilding of transport infrastructure and the procurement of essential supplies such as food, medicines, fertilizers and medical equipment.
