No Pressure to Release 323 Containers: Minister Bimal Ratnayake

09-Jun-2025

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"The release of 323 containers is currently a major topic of discussion. The government has never exerted pressure to release the containers from customs. Allegations are also being made against us. The truth will emerge following the investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID)," said Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation, Bimal Ratnayake.

He made these remarks in response to questions raised by Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Chaminda Wijesiri during the oral question session held in Parliament on Jun 6.

The Minister further stated, "The main ports in Sri Lanka include Colombo Port, Galle Port, Hambantota Port, Trincomalee Port, Oluvil Port, Kankesanthurai Port, Pedro Port, Mannar Port, and Puttalam Port."

"In 2024, Colombo Port generated a revenue of 99 billion rupees and incurred an expenditure of 56 billion rupees. Similarly, Trincomalee Port generated 2.8 billion rupees in revenue and recorded an expenditure of 1.5 billion rupees. Galle Port, meanwhile, earned 907 million rupees but incurred an expenditure of 958 million rupees."

"The Western Terminal of Colombo Port is scheduled for development during the year 2032. Work on the Southern Terminal is expected to reach 50 percent completion by the end of this year."

"Preliminary steps have been taken to develop the Trincomalee Port and its surrounding areas in a coordinated manner. All ports will be developed based on proper planning."

"Appropriate legal action will be taken regarding past frauds at ports and customs. No one in our government has applied pressure on customs to release the containers."

"The release of 323 containers remains a key issue. I, too, have been implicated in this matter. The CID is conducting investigations, and the truth will come to light in due course," he concluded.