Colombo District MP and Deputy National Organizer of Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), S.M. Marikkar, has announced that Sajith Premadasa, if elected president, will transform Kolonnawa and Mulleriyawa into the first smart cities in Sri Lanka. Speaking at a large-scale presidential election rally at the Umagiliya Stadium in Kolonnawa, Marikkar outlined the detailed plans for the area’s development under Premadasa’s leadership.
Transforming Kolonnawa into a Smart City
Marikkar detailed that the proposal for Kolonnawa’s transformation into a smart city, prepared by himself, has already been distributed among the people of the area. The initiative aims to introduce cutting-edge technology, improve infrastructure, and provide modern public services to Kolonnawa’s residents. Marikkar emphasized that Sajith Premadasa had already endorsed this proposal, underscoring his commitment to addressing the needs of the local community.
As part of this transformation, key infrastructure projects include the expansion of the Kolonnawa-Gothatuwa road and the Ambatale-Grandpass road into three-lane thoroughfares, which will facilitate better connectivity and ease traffic congestion. Marikkar noted that the goal is to develop these city limits into thriving commercial hubs, boosting economic activity and creating job opportunities.
Flood Control and Infrastructure Development
One of the critical components of Kolonnawa’s development plan is flood control. Marikkar revealed that Premadasa had already approved measures to complete the unfinished flood management system in the area. This includes constructing two pumping stations at Ambatale Bodhiya Pathumaga and Sedawatta Kalu Palama to prevent flooding and ensure the safety of residents during heavy rains. The completion of this project is expected to resolve long-standing issues related to water management in Kolonnawa.
Housing, Education, and Healthcare for All
Marikkar also assured the people of Kolonnawa that the new development plan under Premadasa would focus on improving housing, education, and healthcare. The goal is to provide every resident of Kolonnawa with access to quality housing, ensuring that no one is left behind. “We will provide a home for every person in Kolonnawa,” Marikkar said, stressing that this initiative will enhance the living standards of the community.
In addition to housing, Marikkar pledged that the government would focus on elevating educational standards in the area. Special attention will be given to addressing the teacher shortage and ensuring that children in Kolonnawa receive a high-quality education. Furthermore, the plan will include improving healthcare services, ensuring that every resident has access to top-notch medical care.
Political Criticism and Rally Support
Marikkar did not hold back from criticizing rival candidates. He specifically targeted Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the leader of the National People’s Power (NPP), accusing his party of failing to garner significant support in the Kolonnawa area. Marikkar claimed that Anura’s recent meetings in Kotikawatte saw a meager turnout, with fewer than 200 people attending, and that even fewer attended a Muslim conference organized by Anura in the region.
Marikkar expressed his confidence in Sajith Premadasa’s ability to secure a landslide victory in Kolonnawa, stating that Premadasa is expected to win with a majority exceeding 25,000 votes, significantly surpassing the 17,000 vote margin from the previous election.
Commercial Hub Vision
Marikkar concluded by sharing his vision for Kolonnawa’s future under Premadasa’s leadership, stating that the area would be transformed into a bustling commercial hub. “My aim is to create a commercial colony full of money,” he said, emphasizing that the smart city development will bring prosperity and pride to every citizen of Kolonnawa. By providing advanced education, high-quality healthcare, and modern housing, the government plans to uplift the community and make Kolonnawa a shining example of urban development.
The rally was attended by a large number of supporters, despite the heavy rain, reflecting the strong backing for Premadasa in the area. Kolonnawa’s residents expressed their hope that these promises will bring about the long-awaited transformation of their city into a modern, thriving metropolis.
