April 27, Colombo (LNW): The construction of a vital new facility at the Maharagama Apeksha Hospital, intended to enhance cancer treatment services, has come to a complete standstill following the sudden withdrawal of Navy personnel who had been providing labour support.
The project in question, known as the “LINAC” building, was designed to house advanced linear accelerator machines essential for the treatment of cancer patients. Planned as a five-storey structure, only the first floor had been completed through government funding.
Subsequent progress was hindered by financial constraints until a Sri Lankan philanthropist pledged approximately Rs. 100 million to facilitate the construction of the second floor.
In a bid to assist, the Sri Lanka Navy had volunteered to contribute labour to the project, allowing construction to continue during the tenure of the previous government. However, on March 20, 2025, the Ministry of Defence abruptly recalled around 60 Navy personnel from the site, citing a lack of formal government approval for their involvement in the project.
Since their withdrawal, construction work has remained frozen for over a month, despite numerous appeals from the Hospital Director, the Ministry of Health, and other concerned stakeholders.
Insiders at the site report that the construction had reached a critical phase, with the concrete slab prepared and ready for pouring at the time of the sudden stoppage.
Unfortunately, prolonged exposure to the elements — sun and rain — is now causing visible damage to the unfinished structure. The pristine timber components, which were carefully installed, are particularly at risk of deterioration if work does not resume swiftly.
Sources further indicated that the 60 Navy personnel who were reassigned back to their base have not been deployed to any alternative duties since their return, further highlighting the inefficient outcome of the decision.
Healthcare professionals and hospital administrators have expressed deep concern that the delay in completing the LINAC building could have serious consequences for thousands of cancer patients awaiting improved treatment facilities.
The halt not only risks wasting the significant private donation but also undermines years of efforts to upgrade cancer care services in Sri Lanka.
There are growing calls for authorities to intervene urgently to resolve administrative hurdles, restore labour support, and prevent further damage to the structure. Restarting construction would not only protect the investment already made but would also hasten the delivery of critical, life-saving healthcare to patients across the country.
