The government has decided to construct a fully-equipped, state-of-the-art new hospital in Dambulla at an estimated cost of Rs. 12 billion, with construction scheduled to be completed within three years, Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said.
An allocation of Rs. 700 million has already been made for the first phase of the project, which will begin with 130 beds and later be expanded to a maximum capacity of 200 beds.
The initial planning for the establishment of the new Dambulla Base Hospital was finalised at a special meeting held at the Walagamba Pirivena in Dambulla under the patronage of the Minister. He stated that the existing hospital will not be developed at its current location, but instead a completely new facility will be constructed with modern infrastructure and advanced medical services.
A plot of land in the Pohoranwewa Grama Niladhari Division of the Dambulla Divisional Secretariat area has already been identified for the project, and the Minister stressed the need for construction to commence without delay.
Dr. Jayatissa also noted that, in line with population distribution and urban usage patterns, four other key hospitals across the island will be rapidly developed alongside the Dambulla Base Hospital.
Highlighting Dambulla’s importance as an economic hub, tourist destination, transport centre and cultural focal point, the Minister said upgrading healthcare facilities in the city is essential to meet the growing needs of the Matale District and surrounding regions. The project aims to provide high-quality healthcare services and significantly elevate the standard of medical care available to the public. (Newswire)