The ambitious three-year Colombo Plan, funded by the United States, is at the forefront of this endeavor.
Lead consultant Rohan Masakorale emphasized the program's focus on developing human resources to enhance the port's competitiveness as a major regional hub.
As part of this initiative, Colombo Port has already commenced the construction of terminals, with plans to double its capacity to 15 million containers by 2026, according to Keith Bernard, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority.
The program is geared towards fostering sustainability in maritime and port operations within Sri Lanka, incorporating modern port systems, state-of-the-art technologies, and international best practices. Technical training exchanges, conferences, visits to U.S. ports, and workshops facilitated by both local and international experts are integral components of this initiative.
U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung highlighted the program's significance in enhancing efficiency and reducing vessel turnaround times at Colombo Port. Additionally, the United States is providing separate funding for a new terminal at the port, a collaborative effort with India's Adani and Sri Lanka's John Keells Holdings.
This joint venture aims to bolster port capabilities, improve operational efficiencies, and expand the scope of value-added services. The Colombo Port's transformative journey aligns with its vision to emerge as a key player in the global maritime landscape.
