Plans to Develop Colombo, Galle, Kandy, and Trincomalee as Key Urban Centers
Colombo, August 21, 2024 – President Ranil Wickramasinghe has announced an ambitious plan to transform Colombo, Galle, Kandy, and Trincomalee into the main urban centers of Sri Lanka, with each city serving a unique role in the country’s development.
Speaking at a recent event, President Wickramasinghe emphasized the strategic importance of Kandy, which is envisioned as both a cultural hub and an educational center, particularly with the establishment of a climate change university. “Kandy is set to become a major cultural and educational center,” the President stated. “We have initiated plans to develop Kandy not only in terms of cultural significance but also as a key player in the educational sector, with the International Climate Change University planned for Kothmale.”
The President also revealed ongoing discussions with Japan to realign the Central Expressway from Galagedara to Katugastota, further integrating Kandy into Sri Lanka’s urban landscape. “We are working to ensure Kandy functions as a significant urban area, alongside Colombo, Galle, and Trincomalee,” he added. In a recent discussion with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Wickramasinghe highlighted plans for the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Chennai to establish a campus in Sri Lanka, with Kandy being the proposed location.
As part of Kandy’s transformation, the President mentioned plans to convert the historic Bogambara prison into a luxury hotel in collaboration with Hilton, preserving its historical value while promoting tourism. “We are also in negotiations to develop the Taj Hotel at the site of the old post office,” he noted. The redevelopment of Bogambara and surrounding areas, including potential tourist hotels and the Kandy South Depot, aims to bolster Kandy’s appeal as a major city over the next decade.
These development plans are part of a broader vision to position Colombo, Galle, Kandy, and Trincomalee as the primary urban centers driving Sri Lanka’s future growth, blending cultural, educational, and economic initiatives.
