The Government has commenced a project to construct 1,000 ‘Arogya’ Health and Wellness Centres across the country, with foundation stones laid today (01) for the construction of 10 new wellness centres under the programme.
The foundation-laying ceremony was held under the patronage of Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.
Speaking at the event, the Minister stated that construction of all the wellness centres initiated today is expected to be completed by December, while construction of a further 25 centres will commence in October 2026.
The project, aimed at strengthening primary healthcare services and providing the public with more accessible and higher-quality healthcare, was inaugurated with the laying of the foundation stone for the Kalutara South Centre today, which is expected to serve around 7,000 people in surrounding Grama Niladhari divisions.
Foundation stones were also laid for health and wellness centres in Balangoda, Kimbulawala in Monaragala, Akmeemana in Galle, Omara in Hambantota, Dehiowita in Kegalle, Suriyapaluwa in Gampaha, Hingurakgoda in Polonnaruwa, Gemunupura in Badulla and Pitawala in Nuwara Eliya.
The Ministry of Health said Rs. 50 million has been allocated for the construction of each centre. Minister Jayatissa said funds have also been provided through Provincial Councils to renovate existing state buildings, including maternal and child health clinic buildings, for the initiative.
He further stated that Rs. 1,500 million will be invested in the project this year, while Rs. 2,000 million has been allocated for next year.
The Minister said the 1,000 centres will provide healthcare services to communities across the country, noting that health services are currently being provided through 39 health and wellness centres.
