Lankan Gov for expediting port projects, seeks funds

Colombo: The Government will expedite the development of the Hambantota Port on a priority basis, the best location for a new port with natural depth of 20+ meters.

A bunkering facility with a tank farm and a SPBM construction is due to commence in March to encourage the numerous ships that traverse the east- west shipping lanes to call at this port. Other facilities of the port will also be developed concurrently,' said the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Port and Aviation Mangala Samaraweera.

Speaking at the Institute of Certified Shipbrokers (ICS) at Cinnamon Grand last night he said that it is the intention of the Government to expedite the development of all the ports. The Galle harbour development which has eluded us for many years will also see reality this year.

'In March we hope to conclude our negotiations with JBIC and launch the construction of a much needed multi-purpose berth in the Galle harbour. Similarly the logistics of the Oluvil port development with Danish funding is already under way. Port of Trincomalee, Kankesanthurei and Point Pedro will also see significant progress this year,' the Minister said.

'The port of Colombo achieved a 10% growth last year overcoming obstacles such as the tsunami and rising oil prices. The Ports Authority (SLPA) against all odds, has recorded its highest ever growth of 31.9 in April last year, bringing in Rs. 3.6 billion revenue during the first half of November, compared to the corresponding period in 2004.' he said.

It is important that the country should have a skilled work force when larger projects are commissioned. I firmly believe that there is more potential in our youth to contribute towards the progress of our country to be a maritime nation,' he said.

As the maritime industry will evolve to accommodate the ten thousand ten plus mega carriers, we here in Sri Lanka will also see the launch of two of the largest infrastructure projects in the country.

Colombo South Harbour Project, scheduled to commence this year will be geared to accommodate the mega vessels. 'The harbour will initially have three terminals and twelve berths with depths of over 18 meters, with modern facilities to obtain high efficiency and productivity levels,' he said.