By: Isuru Parakrama
September 02, Colombo (LNW): In a landmark visit to the Northern Province, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake launched a series of major development projects in Jaffna on Sunday (01), reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, national unity, and post-war reconciliation.
The visit marked the beginning of a comprehensive programme aimed at revitalising the region through infrastructure, technology, sport, and improved public services.
The President commenced his visit by inaugurating the third phase of the Myliddy Fishery Harbour Development Project, a key initiative designed to strengthen the livelihoods of the Northern fishing community. With a government allocation of Rs. 298 million, the project will introduce critical facilities such as water, electricity, cold storage, fuel stations, net-mending centres, auction halls, and radio communication facilities. These services will benefit not only local fishermen but also vessels arriving from the Eastern and Southern Provinces.
Speaking at the event, President Dissanayake underscored his government’s resolve to develop both North and South equally. He noted that whilst previous administrations were driven by the shadow of war, the current government is focused on building enduring peace, returning occupied lands to their rightful owners, and preventing any recurrence of conflict.
Following the inauguration, the President declared open the Jaffna Regional Office of the Department of Immigration and Emigration, located within the Jaffna District Secretariat premises. The new office aims to ease access to vital services for residents of Jaffna, Kilinochchi, and Mullaitivu, who previously had to travel to Vavuniya. The facility is fully equipped with modern technology and signifies the government’s broader digitalisation agenda.
“Our goal is to decentralise government services,” the President said. “By next year, we aim to enable citizens to complete all transactions with the government online—even from their mobile phones. We are laying the foundation for a digitally empowered Sri Lanka.”
At a subsequent meeting with Jaffna district public officials, President Dissanayake emphasised the importance of a strong and accountable public service. He pledged both support and scrutiny: protection for those who serve the people honourably, and legal consequences for those who misuse their authority.
Another significant step towards regional advancement was the launch of the E-Library Programme at the iconic Jaffna Public Library. Through the newly introduced website jaffna.dlp.gov.lk, users around the world can now access the library’s extensive collection online. The programme also introduced an integrated library management system, smart card access, and assistive technologies for differently-abled users. Rs. 100 million has been allocated in the 2025 budget for the initiative.
The President also presided over the commencement of construction on the Jaffna International Cricket Stadium, a project he described as a “symbol of unity and progress.” Situated on Mandaitivu Island, the stadium is part of a broader vision to transform the area into a full-fledged Sports City, complete with a swimming complex, indoor sports arenas, hotels, apartments, and entertainment facilities.
Built in four phases, the stadium will ultimately seat 40,000 spectators and host international matches, including day-night games. President Dissanayake expressed hope that the first match could be played before the end of this year and that within three years, the venue would be ready for international fixtures.
“Cricket has always brought Sri Lanka together,” he said. “It is my dream to see a national team composed of Sinhalese, Tamil, and Muslim youth, cheered by a united crowd. That is the future we are building—one where humanity triumphs over division.”
Later in the day, the President conducted an inspection visit to Katchatheevu Island, accompanied by ministers and senior naval officers, further underlining the government’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime borders and coastal communities.
In his various addresses throughout the day, President Dissanayake struck a firm tone against nationalist politics, warning against forces—both in the North and the South—seeking to divide communities for political gain. “Nationalism has served politicians, not the people,” he said. “We must reject it and build a country rooted in unity, justice, and equality.”
As the President continues his visit to the North today (02), several more projects are expected to be launched, furthering the government’s agenda for inclusive development and regional empowerment.
