The Sri Lankan government has unveiled plans to develop Badulla into a fully-fledged Sports City, with a major focus on upgrading the region’s sporting infrastructure.
The initial discussions and an extensive inspection tour were led by Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage on July 7, where officials assessed the existing facilities and explored plans for a phased redevelopment of the Badulla Sports Complex.
As part of the proposed development, the government aims to modernize the city’s main sports complex while also prioritizing the improvement of football and rugby grounds from next year.
The Minister also reviewed proposals to convert the existing waste disposal site into an indoor sports facility and construct a centre pitch at the Badulla Cricket Ground to improve its suitability for hosting competitive matches.
During the visit, the delegation inspected the Vincent Dias Stadium, Badulla Football Ground, Badulla Cricket Ground, Basketball Court, and the Badulla Swimming Pool.
Addressing the media, Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage said the inspection revealed several shortcomings in the city’s sports infrastructure.
“We identified a number of deficiencies at Badulla’s main sports facilities. Together with the Mayor and local officials, we are planning to address these issues and develop a high-quality sports complex for the city. We expect to take the first major steps toward this project within this year,” he said.
The visit was also attended by Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs Dinindu Saman Hennayake, Deputy Minister of Sports Sugath Thilakaratne, Badulla Mayor Nandana Hapugoda, members of the municipal council, local government officials, and sports coaches.
