New SLPA Maritime Facilitation Centre to Be Completed This Year – Minister Anura Karunathilake
The new administrative building of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority — the Maritime Facilitation Centre (MFC) — is scheduled to be completed within this year, Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunatilaka said.
The Minister made these remarks during an visit conducted yesterday (26) to review the current progress of construction.
Construction of the MFC commenced in July 2021 at the Canal Square premises in Colombo Fort, following the need to remove old buildings in the port city. Although it was initially scheduled for completion within two years, delays occurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic crisis. The project has now reached approximately 75% completion.
The project is funded by the Asian Development Bank, with a total investment of around Rs. 5 billion and USD 2 million. The 19-storey building complex will span approximately 35,000 square metres and is designed to resemble a sailing ship upon completion.
Located near key institutions such as the Customs Headquarters, Sri Lanka Telecom, and several commercial banks, the facility is expected to provide convenient access to port and maritime services. Around 1,600 employees from 24 divisions of the SLPA are expected to be housed in the new complex.
The site also offers easy access to transport, being situated close to the Colombo Fort Railway Station and the main central bus stand.
