Sri Lanka: SLPA to Further Develop Its Maritime Industry

The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) commemorated its 35th anniversary last week with a resolve to further develop the entire maritime industry of the country for sustainable existence in the maritime sector, with rapid globalization and amidst challenging competitions between international ports.

Following the guidelines set in the ‘Mahinda Chinthana’ policy document of the Government of President Mahinda Rajapaksa and instructions extended by Minister of Highways, Ports and Shipping (Projects) Rohitha Abegunawardhana, the SLPA’s timely implementations during the past few years to develop its ports in Colombo, Hambantota Galle and Oluvil saw successful progress.

In a special message at the anniversary celebrations, SLPA Chairman Dr. Priyath B.Wickrama said that the contribution of the SLPA has been vital in every sphere of socioeconomic development of the country.

“Under the ‘Vision 2020’ of the SLPA, the institution has aimed at operating 200 million tons of port cargo by 2020. The Colombo Port Expansion project that has already begun operations and further constructions as well as expansions aims to facilitate the mega container vessels of the future generation. The Colombo Port City Development Project that has been implemented under oncoming development plans of SLPA will enable to bring further international investments to ease economic efficiencies,” he said.

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Source: slpa.lk, August 4, 2014