The foundation stone for Sri Lanka’s first public heated swimming pool was laid today (July 7) at the Uva Provincial Sports Complex in Bandarawela, marking a significant milestone in the country’s sports infrastructure development.
The project, implemented under the direct supervision of the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports Development, has been allocated LKR 144.19 million. It aims to provide rural athletes with modern training facilities and create pathways for success at both national and international levels, in line with the government’s “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life” policy framework.
Speaking as the chief guest, Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage said the initiative represents another important step towards developing disciplined and productive young athletes.
“Instead of producing prisoners, we must produce disciplined athletes who contribute positively to the nation,” the Minister said.
He also stressed that providing world-class facilities for talented athletes from rural areas remains one of the government’s key priorities.
The ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sugath Thilakaratne, Uva Province Governor Kapila Jayasekara, Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure Samantha Vidyarathna, Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe, Dinindu Saman Hennayake, along with several other ministers, public officials, and dignitaries.
