Sri Lanka Approves Nationwide Development of Multi-Modal Transport Hubs to Modernize Public Transit

The Cabinet of Ministers of Sri Lanka has given in-principle approval to a comprehensive proposal to develop multi-modal transport hubs across the country, aiming to modernize and better integrate the nation’s public transport system.

The initiative seeks to connect buses, trains, and taxi services through strategically located hubs that will improve efficiency and convenience for passengers. Sites have been selected based on high and growing passenger volumes, following detailed feasibility studies.

Under the government’s national transport policy, the establishment of these hubs is a key step toward creating a streamlined, efficient, and interconnected public transport network linking major and transit cities.

The Cabinet has approved the proposal presented by the Acting Minister of Transport, Highways, and Urban Development to prioritize development at the following locations:

Kandy Multimodal Transport Hub – Construction underway with World Bank financing

Anuradhapura (South) – Near completion under the Anuradhapura Combined Urban Development Project

Anuradhapura (North) – Feasibility study completed; preliminary work initiated

Colombo Fort – Proposed under the ComTrans Master Plan for Colombo’s urban transport network

Moratuwa and Ragama – Proposed and identified through the ComTrans Master Plan and JICA studies

Avissawella, Galle, Katunayake, Kurunegala, and Gampaha – Identified in Urban Development Authority (UDA) plans and related transport projects

Katunayake – Included under the Airport Development Plan

Kalutara – Proposed by the District Coordination Committee

Kankesanthurai – Identified in UDA urban development plans

Officials emphasized that these hubs will serve as key transit gateways, improving last-mile connectivity and reducing travel time while supporting Sri Lanka’s broader goals of sustainable urban development and economic growth.