Sri Lanka has unveiled a wide-ranging set of transformative projects under the 2025 “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative. With plans spanning inclusive transport, digital infrastructure, tourism, sanitation, coastal sustainability, and public safety, the government aims to drive national development through a cleaner, more inclusive, and culturally vibrant vision.
A comprehensive slate of new national projects has been launched under the government’s flagship “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative for the 2025 financial year, themed around the vision: “A Thriving Nation, A Beautiful Life.”
A progress review meeting on these efforts was held yesterday (June 17) at the Presidential Secretariat, chaired by Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake. The review brought together representatives from ministries, departments, state corporations, boards, and institutions involved in the implementation of these projects.
One of the landmark proposals includes the launch of 10 custom-designed buses for passengers with special needs. These buses will operate routes from Panadura, Kadawatha, and Avissawella to the National Hospital in Colombo, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Transport Board marking the country’s first such service.
Another major development is the plan to build a virtual city centered on Kandy, which is to be completed within a year. The Rs. 50 million pilot project will digitally map the city and its surrounding cultural zones, including the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic.
To boost tourism and foster multicultural harmony, a large-scale three-day cultural festival showcasing Sri Lanka’s diverse ethnic traditions is set to be held at 16 iconic locations across Colombo, including Galle Face Green.
Tourism infrastructure will also be improved with the construction of 500 modern, standardized public toilets in key tourist destinations, backed by an allocated budget of Rs. 525 million.
As part of coastal sustainability goals, efforts are underway to secure Blue Flag international certification for Unawatuna and Hiriketiya beaches within two years. Already, 250 of the planned 450 beach custodians have been appointed to help maintain these areas to international environmental standards.
A nationwide Rs. 300 million wastewater management initiative is being implemented to clean and maintain urban canals and waterways, complemented by a Rs. 100 million plan dedicated to Colombo’s canal network maintenance.
A pilot project focused on reducing water pollution in the upper Mahaweli River has also commenced.
Solid waste management is being prioritized through the distribution of compost dump bins to local authorities. This Rs. 500 million initiative will roll out Rs. 150 million worth of bins in its first phase this year.
A Rs. 120 million road safety programme has also been launched to reduce traffic accidents across the country, while the establishment of model villages aimed at curbing anti-social behavior and drug use is being prioritized islandwide.
The review meeting also featured an in-depth discussion on ensuring the timely and efficient implementation of all projects under the “Clean Sri Lanka” umbrella, with institutional accountability emphasized.
The meeting was attended by Mr. G.M.R.D. Aponsu, Senior Additional Secretary to the President at the Clean Sri Lanka Secretariat, and Mr. S.P.C. Sugeeshwara, Senior Additional Secretary to the President, alongside secretaries and senior representatives from multiple ministries and government institutions.
