February 23, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s state-run postal network could generate as much as Rs. 15 billion in revenue this year, according to Dr Nalinda Jayatissa, Minister of Health and Mass Media.
The Minister made the remarks while inaugurating the refurbished Madawala Ulpotha Post Office on Saturday (22), describing the upgrade as part of a wider effort to revitalise one of the country’s oldest public institutions. The renovation of the local facility was completed at a cost of Rs. 5.1 million, offering improved customer areas and upgraded operational space.
Reflecting on recent financial performance, Dr Jayatissa noted that an earlier allocation of Rs. 2 billion for development initiatives had enabled the Postal Department to increase its income to Rs. 13.45 billion. Building on that momentum, officials are now aiming to surpass Rs. 15 billion in revenue during the current financial year.
He explained that the transformation strategy goes beyond infrastructure repairs and focuses heavily on digitisation and security enhancements. Funds amounting to Rs. 27 million have been set aside to procure 209 CCTV cameras to strengthen monitoring systems at post offices, while Rs. 74 million has been invested in 225 new computers to improve administrative efficiency. In addition, Rs. 101 million will be spent on 1,500 tablet devices to modernise operations at the Central Mail Exchange.
Energy efficiency has also become a priority. Solar power systems are being installed at key locations, including the Batticaloa and Polonnaruwa post offices, the Central Mail Exchange, and Postal Headquarters, at a combined cost of Rs. 24 million. These measures are expected to reduce electricity expenses and promote environmentally sustainable operations.
The Minister further confirmed that long-planned development work at the Polonnaruwa Post Office has now been completed, bringing it in line with updated service standards.
As part of efforts to streamline attendance and improve accountability, Rs. 31 million has also been allocated to purchase 657 fingerprint recognition machines for deployment across post offices islandwide.
Dr Jayatissa emphasised that with continued investment in technology, security and renewable energy, the Postal Department is well positioned not only to improve public service delivery but also to emerge as a financially stronger and more competitive state enterprise.