Srilanka, Dec. 7 -- The total damage caused by the recent adverse weather in Sri Lanka is estimated to be between US$6 billion and US$7 billion, according to Commissioner General of Essential Services Prabath Chandrakeerthi.

Speaking to the media, he said this amount represents between 3% and 5% of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

An Economist's estimate

In an interview with us, economist Dr. Kenneth De Zilwa offered a lower-but still substantial-estimate of the destruction.

He stated that his team's current assessment is Rs. 320 billion, which is "equivalent to a little over US$1 billion, or more."

"Right now, we are taking a very conservative approach, and the projected figure of Rs. 320 billion will likely need to be re...