By: Staff Writer
October 07, Colombo (LNW): Critical economic infrastructure projects in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province, including the Palaly Airport expansion and the Kankasanthurai (KKS) Port ferry service, have remained stalled despite substantial donor funding and resolved land disputes, raising concerns about missed economic opportunities and governance gaps. The lack of progress has sparked renewed criticism from opposition voices, highlighting the potential consequences for trade, tourism, and regional development.
MP Shanakiyan Rasamanickam of the Illankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) accused the Government of neglecting these vital projects, pointing to a lack of political will as a key obstacle.
He questioned why Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Bimal Rathnayake has shown “no interest” in advancing the development of Jaffna International Airport, even though international partners are ready to support the expansion.
Rasamanickam noted that Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake is operating at peak capacity, causing airlines to cancel weekly flights due to slot shortages—underscoring the strategic need for Palaly Airport.
“The Government has US$63 million in donor funding ready, yet Palaly Airport remains underdeveloped. Why is the Minister refusing to answer questions about this?” the MP asked, warning that inaction could carry significant economic consequences for both the Northern Province and the entire country.
Rasamanickam also criticised the KKS Port and its ferry link to Nagapattinam in India, which connects Sri Lanka to a potential market of 2 billion people. He cited social media videos showing poor facilities, warning that substandard conditions could deter passengers and tarnish Sri Lanka’s international image.
The MP further accused the ruling NPP Government of prioritising symbolic initiatives over substantive economic development. “Refurbishing a bus station in Fort, opening a tap, or handing over bicycle tyres will not drive economic growth,” he said, highlighting the lack of mechanisms to stimulate real regional economic activity.
Linking the issue to broader governance concerns, Rasamanickam noted that Sri Lanka will face heightened scrutiny at the upcoming 60th session of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC), where accountability for misuse of public funds and economic justice is expected to feature prominently.
“The failure to deliver on promises of economic justice affects not just minorities in the North, but the entire country. For youth across the North and South, the common aspiration is to leave for better opportunities abroad,” he stressed, warning that continued inaction could deepen inequality and erode public trust.
As Sri Lanka seeks to rebuild its economy, the stalled Northern infrastructure projects underscore a critical tension between available resources, donor funding, and political will, raising questions about the Government’s ability to effectively implement previously budgeted projects.
