More than two weeks after the deadly tsunami attack, finally the government is about to lay out a solid plan to rebuild the nation. It appears that the process would constitute a collaborative effort by all political parties regardless of their policies.

The plan, which is yet to be finalized, was studied by the Presidential Task Force and was drawn up on the basis of plans submitted to by the relevant line ministries and focused on rebuilding all sectors devastated by the tsunami disaster. At the discretion of the President it will be drawn up for submission to the National Committee on Disaster Management comprising representatives of all political parties.

This medium and long term action plan will focus on improving infrastructure in the affected areas and its aim is not just to replace the infrastructure destroyed by tsunami.

In the meantime, The PTF is now holding discussions with International Donor Institutions and other relevant parties regarding the implementation of the projects. All projects accepted by the National Committee will be effective by the end of this month.

Sri Lanka has been receiving funds from all around the globe, regardless of any cross-policies. Adding to it is a part of Britain’s latest 75 million pounds donation to the Asian region. Another important aid to the rebuilding process is the Rich creditor nations Debt Relief offer for tsunami affected countries. The government has already accepted the offer to halt repayments on billions of dollars of debt as said by the Paris Club.

However, the question is raised of fairness and possible corruption resulting from the quantity of funds available in the hands of officials who are to take on an enormous task. But the dependency on International donors would always keep them restricted as sufficient progress would be a requirement for further assistance in relieving the burden. I hope everything would go in the right direction, but as always I wouldn't be surprised to hear stories that would make us go back to where we started.