Minister of Transport and Ports Bimal Rathnayake and Deputy Minister Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku carried out a surprise inspection of the East Container Terminal (ECT) development project.

The Minister stated that at least 50% of operations at the ECT could begin within 2025 and urged officials to fast-track full project completion. He emphasised that the terminal is a crucial national asset and will not be handed over to foreign entities.

Highlighting that no development occurred between 2014 and 2022, he praised the progress made under the current administration since then. He also instructed that the terminal be operated under the Sri Lanka Ports Authority with a modern and efficient management system.

Senior officials, including the SLPA Chairman, Vice Chairman, and Project Director, accompanied the inspection.