Transport and Ports Minister Bimal Rathnayake and Deputy Minister Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku conducted an unannounced inspection visit to the ongoing East Container Terminal (ECT) development project yesterday evening.
During the visit, the Minister reviewed the progress of the construction and stated that at least 50% of operations at the ECT could commence within this year. He also stressed the urgency of expediting the full completion of the terminal.
The Minister noted that no construction had taken place between 2014 and 2022, but significant progress has been made since 2022, particularly under the current administration. He emphasised that the ECT is a hard-won national asset secured by port workers and would not be handed over to any external parties.
Instructions were issued to ensure the terminal remains under the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and operates under an efficient, modern management system.
The SLPA Chairman, Vice Chairman, Project Director, and other officials joined the inspection. (Newswire)