The meeting marks the conclusion of the World Bank Technical Support Mission held from June 11–17, 2025. The session was chaired by Mr. D. P. Wickramasinghe, Secretary of the Ministry, with the World Bank delegation led by Mr. Tomas Ricardo Rosada Villamar (Practice Manager). Other key participants included Dr. Sheu Salau (Task Team Leader – TTL), Thiruni Liyanage (Co-TTL and Senior Water Resources Management Specialist), Dr. Athula Senaratne (Senior Agriculture Specialist), Mr. Seenithamby Manoharan (Senior Consultant for Agriculture and Rural Development), Mr. Jagath Seneviratne (Consultant for Monitoring & Evaluation), and Mr. Sanjeewa Rodrigo (Consultant for Agribusiness & Marketing).

• Presentation of Mission Findings: The World Bank team shared preliminary findings, assessments, and recommendations from their mission.
• Review of Project Progress: Achievements, challenges, and the status of project components were discussed in detail.
• Discussion of Agreed Actions: A list of agreed actions was finalized for implementation before project closure.
• Stakeholder Engagement: The meeting provided a platform for active engagement among Ministry officials, World Bank representatives, and project staff.

Looking ahead, under Phase II of CSIAP, 173 tanks are scheduled for rehabilitation in 2025. Of these, 15 tanks may see work extend beyond December if rainfall exceeds expectations. All tanks are currently under rehabilitation, with Dr. Salau confirming that the required funds are fully committed and no cancellations are anticipated during the current mission. 

• Complete Procurement: All RFQ items and related activities to be completed by July 30, 2025.
• Utilize GOSL Funds: Any operational cost increases beyond committed IDA funds will be covered by the Government of Sri Lanka funds.
• Minimize Variation Orders: Avoid or minimize VOs; if necessary, VOs must be proactively issued by DPD offices in consultation with DAD and PID by July 31, 2025.
• Finalize Training: All planned training activities (worth USD 0.72 million) to be completed by November 30, 2025.
•  Monthly Billing: Contractors to ensure monthly submission of bills.
• Additional Support: DAD and PID will receive extra support for suspension handling and bill processing through two consultations (2 days per week), and a vehicle will be hired at each DPD office until October 31, 2025.

The meeting was also attended by Ms. Anuradha Dharmasena (Director, Development, MALLI), Mr. Saman Bandulasena (Project Director), as well as specialists and officers of the CSIAP.

Posted by CSIAP Sri Lanka Read full article Published Date : 2025-06-17