A major shipping company is attempting to acquire the Eastern Container Terminal (ECT) of the Colombo Port, and the recent changes to the terminal’s route plan under the current government could be a preliminary step to facilitate this transfer, warned Shyamal Sumanaratne, Co-Convenor of the Joint Alliance of Port Trade Unions.
Speaking at a special media briefing in Colombo, Sumanaratne addressed the concerns of the Joint Alliance of Port Trade Unions regarding the actions taken by the current administration of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA).
He expressed suspicion that a scheme is underway to benefit another terminal by altering the original route plan of the ECT. Additionally, he revealed that the SLPA administration has canceled the tender for purchasing essential equipment for the terminal, a move that will significantly delay its construction.
Sumanaratne further alleged that the current port administration has misled key government officials, including President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the Minister of Ports, and the Deputy Minister. He emphasized that the cancellation of the tender, coupled with pressure exerted on the officials of the construction company, will result in at least a 16-month delay in completing the terminal.
He also dismissed the government’s claim that the Eastern Terminal will be operational by June, asserting that without immediate intervention from the President, the entire port system could face a collapse.
Sumanaratne highlighted that due to administrative weaknesses, shipping companies that have existing contracts with the port are withdrawing, and this trend is expected to escalate, further jeopardizing the operations of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority.
Affirming the commitment of the port workers’ trade unions, he stated that these unions will take all necessary steps to safeguard the port. He emphasized that all trade unions have united beyond political differences to protect the Eastern Terminal and uphold their collective policy.
He reiterated that, regardless of the challenges, responsible trade unions will continue to fight for the port’s protection. The Joint Alliance of Trade Unions, being a powerful entity within the port system, will take a firm stance against any actions that threaten the port’s integrity.
Sumanaratne concluded by strongly criticizing the SLPA administration for engaging in activities detrimental to the port, which he described as the heart of Sri Lanka’s economy. He asserted that the current government must urgently reorganize its approach to port management to prevent further damage to this vital national asset.
