The modernization project of the Colombo Fort Railway Station was officially launched today (09), with Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya presiding over the inauguration.

The project, led by the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, aims to enhance the Fort Railway station’s facilities while preserving its historical significance, in collaboration with the Department of Archaeology.

Under the project, a new three-story passenger service building is proposed, which will house facilities including accommodation, lounges, standard dining areas, sanitation systems, an information center, a pharmacy and a postal service center—providing daily essential services to the public.

The station’s internal passenger footbridge will be replaced with a modern structure featuring electric stairs and automated escalators, ensuring access to all platforms, the Ministry of Transport said in a statement.

The bridge will be designed with one end opening towards Kompannavidiya and D.R. Wijewardene Mawatha while the other end toward Maradana and Bastian Mawatha. The project will also include an e-gate system with digital technology to streamline passenger movement.

Additionally, the project includes a public transport hub equipped with facilities to safely accommodate three-wheelers, taxis and private cars.

The project is expected to be completed within 15 months at an estimated cost of Rs. 2,162 million, with Rs. 1,500 million financed through an Asian Development Bank loan and the remaining Rs. 662 million covered by the Sri Lankan government, the Transport Ministry noted.