The government has launched the first phase of its “Life Cities” programme, targeting the planned development of 10 cities across Sri Lanka in 2026.
The programme, introduced under the 2026 Budget, was officially launched in Battaramulla on Sept. 11 under the patronage of Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya and with the participation of Transport, Highways and Urban Development Minister Bimal Rathnayake.
Under the first phase, Jaffna, Matara, Batticaloa, Badulla, Matale, Thambuttegama, Vavuniya, Hatton, Chilaw and Eheliyagoda have been selected for development in 2026.
A further 16 cities — Dehiwala, Kalutara, Panadura, Matugama, Galle, Kegalle, Bandarawela, Kalmunai, Akuressa, Kurunegala, Puttalam, Nattandiya, Ratnapura, Trincomalee, Kantale and Ella — have been selected for 2027.
The government said Life Cities is intended to introduce a systematic, prioritised and data-driven approach to urban development, addressing issues caused by inadequate planning, feasibility assessments and coordination among institutions.
The programme aims to create efficient, sustainable and investment-friendly urban centres by improving infrastructure and services, expanding economic opportunities and increasing tourism potential.
During the launch, Rathnayake formally presented the programme’s national plan to the prime minister, while project plans were also handed over to representatives of the local authorities covering the 10 cities selected for 2026. (Newswire)
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