A new five-storey Port Health Office at the Port of Colombo, constructed at a cost of Rs. 168 million under a project implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) with financial assistance from the Government of Japan, was officially inaugurated and handed over to the public .
Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa attended the inauguration ceremony as the chief guest.
The new facility is expected to significantly strengthen Sri Lanka's international border health security by enhancing the country's capacity to detect and respond to public health risks entering through the port. The office will play a key role in disease surveillance, quarantine operations, early identification of public health threats, and rapid response to health emergencies.
Addressing the significance of the project, the Minister noted that the investment would become even more valuable in the years ahead. As Sri Lanka continues its path towards stable economic growth following the economic crisis, ensuring robust health security within the country's port system is essential not only for safeguarding public health but also for protecting national economic stability.
The event was also attended by Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunathilaka; Akio Isomata, Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka; Kristine Parco, Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for Sri Lanka and the Maldives; Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Health and Mass Media Salinda Bandara; Deputy Director General Dr. S. M. Arnold; Chief Medical Officer of the Port Health Office Dr. S. A. S. Maheepala; Director of Quarantine Dr. Yasoma Weerasekara; former Chief Port Health Officer Dr. R. K. S. Wijesinghe; Harbour Master Captain Lakshi Wasantha; Assistant Managing Director of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority Nalin Aponsu; and several other officials.
