Thursday Aug 06, 2026
Thursday Aug 06, 2026
Thursday, 6 August 2026 06:29 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
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Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya
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The Government is set to reopen the call for Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for the long-delayed Dedduwa Lake-Based Tourist Resort Development Project in Bentota after previous investor proposals failed to meet financial evaluation requirements, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya told Parliament
yesterday.
Responding to questions in Parliament, Dr. Amarasuriya said two proposals received following the Government’s 2026 re-invitation of EOIs and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) were not recommended by the Development Proposal Evaluation Committee as investors had not provided sufficient financial proof to establish the required financial capacity.
“Although two proposals were received, neither investor submitted sufficient financial proof to confirm the required financial capacity; therefore, the Development Proposal Evaluation Committee did not recommend any proposal,” she said.
The project seeks to develop 694.54 hectares of acquired inland land in Bentota into an integrated lake-based tourism destination, including floating accommodation, water sports, nature-based activities, and agri-tourism programs, aimed at expanding the area’s tourism offering beyond coastal attractions.
The latest attempt follows the cancellation of a previous investment agreement in 2022, with the Government reopening the project for investor interest in 2026.
Land acquisition for the project commenced around 2005 and was completed in late 2017. A total of 1,068 landowners received Rs. 147.3 million in compensation, together with Rs. 88.8 million in interest payments. The acquired lands have since been vested with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA).
Before seeking fresh investment proposals, authorities are focusing on preparing the project area through infrastructure development and land management measures.
The Prime Minister said the Bentota Divisional Secretariat has been assigned to acquire an additional 27 to 30 acres required for the construction of a dedicated access road connecting the project area from Galle Road.
“The SLTDA, together with the Bentota Divisional Secretariat and other relevant institutions, is working to demarcate boundaries and resolve issues related to unauthorised land encroachments,” she said.
The Government expects the project to support tourism sector expansion once a suitable investor is identified and the development proceeds.
