Deputy Minister Nalin Hewage announced that the military camp currently located within the historic Galle Fort will be relocated to a different area, in line with recommendations from the Secretary of the Ministry of Defense. The decision aims to pave the way for new investment opportunities within the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Speaking at the Galle District Coordination Committee meeting chaired jointly by Hewage and Southern Province Governor Bandula Harischandra, the Deputy Minister also confirmed that all state institutions operating from within Galle Fort will be shifted elsewhere.
Hewage emphasized that there are already sufficient security facilities in the city, including a naval base and police headquarters, making the presence of an army camp within the fort redundant.
“The military presence in the fort is no longer essential,” Hewage stated. “Once it is removed, we will be able to proceed with our planned investment programs for the area.”
The move is expected to open up significant development opportunities in the iconic coastal zone, which has long been a key attraction for both local and international tourists.
