Saturday Apr 11, 2026
Saturday Apr 11, 2026
Friday, 10 April 2026 00:03 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya
The Government yesterday launched a major project to modernise Colombo Fort Railway Station into an international-standard transport hub, marking a significant step in upgrading the country’s public transport infrastructure.
The Railway Efficiency Improvement Project, implemented under the Transport, Highways and Urban Development Ministry, is being financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) along with Government funding, with a total investment exceeding Rs. 2.16 billion. The project is scheduled for completion within 15 months.
Launched under the patronage of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, the initiative aims to enhance services for the hundreds of thousands of daily commuters using the country’s busiest railway station.
Key upgrades include the introduction of automated ticketing systems, the construction of electric lifts and overhead pedestrian bridges to improve accessibility for the elderly and persons with disabilities, and the development of new building complexes to strengthen passenger safety. High-standard sanitation facilities will also be installed as part of the overhaul.
Upon completion, the station is expected to function as a modern, passenger-centric transport hub, integrating technology and improved infrastructure to boost efficiency and commuter convenience.
Addressing the launch, Dr. Amarasuriya stressed that a country cannot be considered developed without a robust public transport system, reiterating the Government’s commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive transport network accessible to all segments of society.
The event was attended by Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake, Deputy Speaker Dr. Rizvie Salih, Deputy Ministers Prasanna Gunasena and Eranga Gunasekara, Colombo Deputy Mayor Hemantha Weerasinghe, Railway General Manager Ravindra Pathmapriya and other senior officials.
