By: Staff Writer
September 29, Colombo (LNW): The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) has officially joined Sri Lanka’s GovPay digital payment platform, allowing the public to settle fees for a wide range of environmental services online from Friday, September 26.
The move marks a major step in the government’s digital transformation drive— promising faster, paperless transactions, while also raising questions about accessibility and digital readiness among rural users.
Under the new system, clients can now make electronic payments for inspections, environmental licences, waste management permits, Basel export consents, certifications, laboratory tests, procurement services, and annual renewals. The initiative aims to eliminate lengthy in-person queues and reduce administrative delays that have long plagued service delivery at state offices.
According to the CEA, the integration with GovPay will enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability, ensuring payments are securely processed through 14 licensed banks and six fintech apps. Clients can also access real-time receipts and transaction records a key shift toward improving trust in government services.
The GovPay platform, introduced by the Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) in collaboration with LankaPay (Pvt.) Ltd., operates under the Ministry of Digital Economy. Since its launch in February 2025, over 147 government institutions have adopted the system, facilitating Rs. 291 million in transactions across 2,017 services. The CEA becomes the latest state agency to integrate into this expanding digital ecosystem.
At the official signing ceremony held at CEA headquarters, senior officials from both organisations hailed the partnership as a milestone in Sri Lanka’s journey toward e-governance and sustainable administration. CEA representatives emphasised that digitisation not only improves service convenience but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing paper waste and physical travel.
However, while the system is widely welcomed by urban users and corporate clients, some experts caution that limited digital literacy and internet access in rural areas could hinder equal participation. “The platform is efficient, but public awareness and access remain key,” said an ICT consultant. “Without inclusive outreach, small businesses and rural applicants may still depend on manual processes.”
Despite these challenges, GovPay’s adoption is seen as a critical reform in improving public sector efficiency and reducing opportunities for corruption and cash leakages. With real-time transaction monitoring, the Treasury and Auditor General’s Department can track revenue collections more accurately.
For the CEA, the integration marks a significant leap in aligning environmental governance with digital transformation and transparency goals. As more state agencies join GovPay, Sri Lanka’s public service is steadily evolving toward a faster, greener, and more accountable digital future.
