Rs. 20 Bn Allocated to Transform Anuradhapura Hospital

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital is set to be upgraded as Sri Lanka’s fourth National Hospital, complete with all modern facilities, according to Minister of Housing and Construction Susil Ranasinghe.

The Minister made the announcement while inspecting ongoing development projects at the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital, accompanied by officials.

Nearly Rs. 20 billion has been allocated for the hospital’s development, with multiple projects currently underway as part of the transformation process.

Minister Ranasinghe said a clear policy decision has been taken to elevate the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital to National Hospital status. 

He stressed that the declaration would only be made after essential groundwork and development activities are completed, rather than merely placing a signboard naming it a National Hospital.

He revealed that between 14 and 15 development projects have already commenced at the hospital, comprising both small- and large-scale initiatives. 

Among the major projects are the construction of a cancer treatment unit, which is currently underway, and the final stages of work on a nurses’ hostel. 

The Minister expressed confidence that operations at the nurses’ hostel could begin by September.

In addition, a seven-storey cardiac treatment unit is being constructed, while preliminary work has already been completed for the establishment of an emergency treatment unit directly in front of the hospital premises.

Minister Ranasinghe further stated that the Ministry of Finance is prepared to allocate the necessary funds required for the hospital’s future development.