Parliament, Independence Square and Presidential Secretariat buildings need urgent repairs
- CNL Reporter
- May 22, 2025
- Political
- Parliament
- 0 Comments
Three of Sri Lanka’s most iconic government buildings – the Parliament Complex in Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, the Old Parliament Building at Galle Face (now the Presidential Secretariat), and Independence Square in Colombo 7 – have been officially identified as requiring significant maintenance and structural upgrades.
State construction authorities have already submitted assessment and design reports to the relevant institutions, outlining the urgent repairs required. According to the Speaker’s Office, the Urban Development Authority (UDA) has estimated that renovating the Parliament Complex alone would cost around Rs. 10 billion.
The Parliament building has reportedly suffered significant water damage due to a leaking roof, resulting in cracks in walls and columns. The outdated electrical and plumbing systems, as well as the deteriorating internal rainwater gutter system, have also contributed to the building’s declining condition. Of the total estimated cost, Rs. 5 billion has been allocated solely for roof repairs..
A phased five-year renovation plan is scheduled to begin next month, with labour assistance from the Sri Lanka Army and Navy. International support was initially pledged by organizations such as USAID, but funding has been suspended due to a policy change by the U.S. President, creating financial uncertainty for the project.
