Commonwealth _ Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) marked its 45th anniversary on August 1, 2024, with a series of religious activities held at its Chithya premises. The event was organized under the leadership of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva. SLPA was established on August 1, 1979, with the initiative spearheaded by the late Lalith Athulathmudali, who served as Ports Minister at the time. Since its inception, SLPA has been responsible for the development of all commercial ports in Sri Lanka, undertaking numerous mega-development projects to enhance the country’s port infrastructure. Among these developments, the rapid transformation of the Port of Colombo into a global container port stands out as a significant achievement.
One of the landmark projects of SLPA is the Jaya Container Terminal (JCT), which holds the distinction of being the first container terminal in South Asia. This development positioned Sri Lanka as a key player in the regional maritime industry. In recent years, SLPA has continued to modernize its facilities to keep up with global standards. Notably, six Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes have been installed at the Colombo East Container Terminal (CECT), facilitating smooth operations and contributing to an increase in SLPA’s market share. The latest upgrades at the JCT have enabled the terminal to handle larger TEU vessels, further enhancing its operational capacity. During the 45th-anniversary celebrations, Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva paid tribute to the late Lalith Athulathmudali, acknowledging his pivotal role in establishing SLPA and his lasting legacy in Sri Lanka’s maritime sector. The minister emphasized the importance of evolving beyond traditional frameworks and embracing public-private partnerships to face global competition and navigate political challenges.
In his address, Minister de Silva highlighted the necessity for SLPA to adapt and innovate in response to the dynamic global maritime industry. He stressed that the port must move forward by integrating modern practices and fostering collaborations that can drive growth and competitiveness. This forward-looking approach is essential for SLPA to maintain its position as a leading port authority in the region. The anniversary celebrations also included a blood donation campaign, reflecting SLPA’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement. This initiative saw participation from various stakeholders, including SLPA Chairman Keith D. Bernard, Vice Chairman Gayan Algewattege, Managing Director Prabath J. Malavige, and numerous higher officials and employees.
Keith D. Bernard, Chairman of SLPA, expressed his pride in the organization’s achievements over the past 45 years. He acknowledged the dedication and hard work of SLPA’s employees and emphasized the importance of continuing to build on the strong foundation laid by the pioneers of the authority. Bernard reiterated SLPA’s commitment to enhancing its infrastructure, improving operational efficiency, and fostering sustainable growth. Vice Chairman Gayan Algewattege and Managing Director Prabath J. Malavige also shared their insights during the event. They highlighted the strategic importance of ongoing development projects and the need for SLPA to remain agile and responsive to industry trends. Their remarks underscored the collective effort required to navigate the challenges and opportunities in the maritime sector.
As SLPA looks to the future, it aims to leverage its strategic location and state-of-the-art facilities to attract more international shipping lines and boost trade volumes. The authority’s vision includes expanding its port network, enhancing connectivity, and promoting Sri Lanka as a premier maritime hub. The 45th-anniversary celebration of SLPA was not only a moment to reflect on past achievements but also an opportunity to set the stage for future growth. With continued investment in infrastructure, a focus on innovation, and a commitment to public-private partnerships, SLPA is poised to navigate the evolving landscape of the global maritime industry and contribute to Sri Lanka’s economic development.
