January 05, Colombo (LNW): The Urban Development Authority (UDA), in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank, is poised to inject over Rs. one billion into transforming Sigiriya/Dambulla and Trincomalee into thriving tourism hubs.
Minister Prasanna Ranatunga highlighted that this pivotal project faced setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic challenges. However, the government aims to kickstart this initiative by allocating an initial investment of Rs. 320 million this year. The primary objective is to convert specific locations within Sigiriya/Dambulla and Trincomalee cities into designated tourism zones while facilitating necessary infrastructure development.
Besides enhancing infrastructure, the project emphasizes the preservation and development of historically significant sites. “Creation of new car parks and similar initiatives will significantly bolster tourism revenue, particularly benefiting stakeholders in these regions,” Minister Ranatunga stated, adding that consultations with regional provincial councils and relevant ministries have been initiated to gather diverse perspectives for this project’s success.
The Trincomalee segment of the project encompasses six sub-projects aimed at comprehensive development. These include plans for Dutch Bay and Back Bay Beach Development, preservation and enhancement of Fort Frederick, the establishment of public facilities for hot springs, construction of floating restaurants, and the creation of eco-parks.
Furthermore, the project outlines strategies for improving Powder Island and Crow Island Areas, modernizing Colonial Buildings, including the Trincomalee Port Head Office Premises, to uplift the aesthetic and functional appeal of these locations.
