Construction of the new Cardiology Unit building at the District General Hospital, Trincomalee commenced this morning (16) under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, with the aim of providing comprehensive and modern cardiac care services to the people of the Eastern Province at a single location.
Four new projects valued at approximately Rs. 7100 million to be added to Sri Lanka’s health sector today - Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr Nalinda Jayatissa
The project is being implemented at a cost of Rs. 2,403 million with financial assistance from the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), under the Health and Medical Services Improvement Project, to strengthen facilities for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
The eight-storey Cardiology Unit building will comprise state-of-the-art operating theatres, outpatient services, inpatient treatment facilities and fully equipped laboratories. Construction is scheduled to be completed by May 2028.
The President unveiled the commemorative plaque to mark the commencement of construction and engaged in a cordial conversation with members of the hospital staff.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr Nalinda Jayatissa said:
“Last September, we visited this location and made a commitment to commence work on this Cardiology Unit as soon as possible. We expect to complete construction of this project by May 2028.
Today, under the patronage of the President, the laying of foundation stones for four major construction projects is taking place. This morning, the foundation stone was laid for the Accident and Emergency Unit at the District General Hospital in Mannar, which is being constructed with Indian assistance at a cost of Rs. 600 million. With equipment included, this is a project valued at Rs. 4,185 million, of which Rs. 2,403 million has been allocated for construction and Rs. 1,782 million for the purchase of equipment.
Later this afternoon, the foundation stone will be laid for the construction of a four-storey medical ward complex at the Mullaitivu Hospital at a cost of Rs. 600 million. A foundation stone will also be laid for the construction of a Cardiology Unit at the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital, with a value exceeding Rs. 3,000 million. Today, construction projects valued at approximately Rs. 7100 million, and facilities worth approximately Rs. 12,000 million including equipment, will be added to Sri Lanka’s health sector.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Arun Hemachandra said:
“Numerous issues relating to healthcare services in the Trincomalee District had emerged over the past several years. A project that had remained at the discussion stage for nearly a decade is becoming a reality today.
Several projects initiated with JICA assistance had been suspended midway due to the economic crisis. It is due to the steps taken by the President, in his capacity as Minister of Finance, to restructure and stabilise the country’s economy that we have been able to recommence this project today. This is also the second project being implemented at this hospital with JICA assistance.
Over the past two years, various projects and development programmes have been implemented in the Trincomalee District. In particular, significant expenditure was incurred on projects following Cyclone Ditwah. We believe that this project will provide a significant service not only to Trincomalee but to the entire Eastern Province.”
Japanese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Akio Isomata said:
“I would like to express my appreciation to the President, the Minister of Health and Mass Media and all Sri Lankan stakeholders who have worked with dedication to make this occasion a success. “The support provided to the Trincomalee District General Hospital is part of the longstanding partnership between Japan and Sri Lanka in the healthcare sector. About a year ago, when equipment for waste management was donated to this hospital, I discussed this project with the Minister. It is a matter of great satisfaction to see this project becoming a reality.
Japan has placed special emphasis on supporting the social and economic development of Sri Lanka’s Northern and Eastern Provinces. I am proud that Japan has been a longstanding and trusted partner of Sri Lanka. I would also like to reaffirm that Japan remains ready to support the efforts of the Government of Sri Lanka to enhance healthcare infrastructure and establish a sustainable healthcare system”.
Religious leaders in the area, Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr Nalinda Jayatissa, Eastern Province Governor Jayantha Lal Ratnasekera and other public representatives from the province, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (retired), government officials, Japanese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Akio Isomata, Chief Representative of the JICA Sri Lanka Office Shigeo Honzu and the Director and staff of the hospital were also present at the occasion.
