Plan to develop Colombo Fort as tourism zone brought to President's attention

20-Aug-2026

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A discussion on a plan to develop Colombo's historic Fort area into a tourist destination capable of attracting visitors was held on August 19 at the Presidential Secretariat under the chairmanship of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

With financing and loans from the World Bank, the Western Provincial Council, Urban Development Authority and Colombo Municipal Council have jointly planned to develop the Colombo Fort area into an international-standard tourism hub. Under the project, eight attractive tourism zones are proposed to be established.

Accordingly, plans are in place to preserve and develop historically significant sites and buildings and implement a systematic transport plan. The project is also expected to establish connectivity with Colombo Port City and tourist cruise ships arriving at the port, thereby making a significant contribution to the country's economy.

The initial studies related to the implementation of the project were discussed at the meeting. It was also noted that a traffic study is currently being conducted to reduce congestion in the area.

The President instructed officials to prepare the comprehensive plan and for the Urban Development Authority and Municipal Council to jointly hold a further discussion on the matter. He also stressed the need to pay particular attention to the rehabilitation of canals in the area when implementing the overall project.