Nine Ministerial Bungalows in Colombo to Become Ambassadorial Residences

In a significant move to optimize state assets, nine ministerial bungalows in Colombo are set to be repurposed as ambassadorial offices. State Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, Prof. Channa Abeyratne, confirmed that the allocation process is in its final stages. These properties have been sought by various embassies for some time, indicating a growing need for diplomatic representation facilities.

The government's decision stems from a policy to cease the use of ministerial bungalows by ministers themselves. This shift aims to generate revenue from these valuable state properties and redirect them towards economically beneficial projects. The initiative reflects a broader strategy to enhance fiscal efficiency and ensure that state resources are utilized productively.

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The government has made a policy decision not to use any ministerial bungalows for the use of ministers.

Beyond the ambassadorial residences, plans are in motion to allocate six more ministerial bungalows for commercial activities. Furthermore, the government intends to designate additional bungalows based on requirements for establishing courts. Notably, a special court has already been established using three such bungalows, and another has been provided to the Bribery or Corruption Investigation Commission, demonstrating a multi-faceted approach to utilizing these assets for public service and governance.

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Therefore, the government's main objective is to generate income from them as well as to invest them in economically productive projects.