INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Sagala Ratnayaka, the Senior Adviser to the President on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff, has called for reports on the
progress and future plans of the Beira Lake Development Project to the President by December 15.Additionally, Ratnayake instructed the
relevant head of institutions to promptly provide a report on the Colombo City beautification plan and its current status for immediate
submission to the President.These directives were issued during a discussion held at the Presidential Secretariat on the implementation of
the Colombo City Beautification Plan and the progress review of the Beira Lake Development Project on Monday.The meeting focused on various
aspects, including the development of identified land around Beira Lake for public activities in collaboration with the private sector
The discussion also addressed ongoing efforts to prevent sewage pipes from being diverted into the Beira Lake, aiming to reduce the
percentage of bacteria and algae in the lake.Several key points were discussed, such as the redevelopment of the central bus station at
three locations near the Colombo Fort railway station, collaboration with the private sector for commercial development of the current bus
station location, removal of unsafe trees in the Colombo city and replanting suitable trees.The meeting delved into identifying and
maintaining dilapidated buildings, creating a regulatory plan for traffic flow, passenger pick-up and stopping and progress on projects to
regulate rainwater drainage.Furthermore, a joint program with the Sri Lanka Police, Colombo Municipal Council, and Trade Associations was
discussed to reduce and manage congestion in Colombo during the upcoming Christmas season.Senior officials from the Colombo Municipal
Council, Urban Development Authority, Road Development Authority, Sri Lanka Land Development Corporation and Sri Lanka Police actively
participated in this comprehensive discussion.
