Pettah Bus Terminal Review Reinforces Institutional Commitment
A high-level progress review meeting on the renovation of the Pettah (Colombo Central) Bus Terminal was held on 03 February at the Ministry of Defence, chaired by the Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd). The meeting focused on assessing the renovation project, which is being implemented by the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) with the objective of modernizing infrastructure, enhancing passenger facilities, and improving operational efficiency while creating a cleaner, safer, and more commuter-friendly environment.
During the meeting, the Defence Secretary highlighted the strategic importance of the Pettah Bus Terminal as a key national transport hub. He emphasized the need to maintain high construction quality, strictly adhere to approved timelines, and ensure full compliance with established engineering, safety, and environmental standards. He further stressed the importance of uninterrupted services for commuters while renovation work continues. Clear directives were issued to project implementers and stakeholders to strengthen inter-agency coordination, promptly iron out operational challenges, and see the project through to completion without compromising quality.
A detailed technical briefing was delivered by SLAF Director General Construction Engineering, Air Vice Marshal Vajira Senadeera, who outlined the scope of work, progress achieved to date, current stage of completion, upcoming phases, and measures to prevent delays while maintaining high construction standards.
The Mayor of Colombo, Mrs. Vraie Cally Balthazaar, commended the project as timely and essential, noting that the renovated terminal would improve traffic flow, operational efficiency, and the overall commuter experience once completed within the stipulated timeframe.
The renovation is part of the national Clean Sri Lanka Programme, aimed at enhancing urban infrastructure while promoting environmental cleanliness, public convenience, and sustainable development. In line with this initiative, the project integrates modern utilities, upgraded waste management systems, improved lighting and ventilation, and contemporary design features.
The meeting was attended by Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe, Commander of the Air Force; the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB); the Deputy Inspector General of Police for the Colombo Range; and senior representatives from the Road Development Authority (RDA), National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWS&DB), Ministry of Transport and Highways, Ministry of Digital Economy, Clean Sri Lanka Secretariat, Sri Lanka Telecom, Ceylon Electricity Board, and Additional Secretaries to the President attached to the Clean Sri Lanka Secretariat.
Upon completion, the renovated Colombo Central Bus Terminal is expected to modernize existing infrastructure, enhance passenger comfort and accessibility, reduce congestion, and contribute to greater efficiency and reliability in public transport services operating from the city.
