In the midst of the global COVID-19 pandemic, Port City Colombo, Sri Lanka’s largest foreign investment project, has continued its construction unabated, exemplifying resilience and stringent safety protocols. The ambitious development, envisioned to accommodate over 200,000 people, stands as a symbol of economic progress and a beacon of hope for the nation.
With approximately 1,600 workers on-site, maintaining operations during a global health crisis posed significant challenges. Kosala, the project’s safety engineer, shared insights into how the team navigated this unprecedented situation. “Our priority has always been the health and safety of our workforce. From the onset of the pandemic, we implemented rigorous precautions to protect everyone involved,” he stated.
The measures adopted included regular health screenings, mandatory mask policies, social distancing protocols, and enhanced sanitation practices throughout the construction site. Workers underwent daily temperature checks, and hand sanitizing stations were installed at strategic locations. “We also reduced the number of workers per shift to minimize contact and arranged transportation to avoid overcrowding,” Kosala added.
These proactive steps ensured that construction could proceed without significant interruptions, contributing to the project’s timely progress. The continued development of Port City Colombo is not only crucial for the construction industry but also for the broader economic recovery of Sri Lanka in the post-pandemic era.
Port City Colombo, once completed, is expected to transform the economic landscape of Sri Lanka, offering a state-of-the-art urban environment with commercial, residential, and recreational facilities. The project’s advancement during such challenging times underscores the commitment and dedication of all stakeholders involved.
As countries worldwide grapple with the impacts of COVID-19, the experience of Port City Colombo highlights the effectiveness of stringent safety measures in sustaining essential economic activities. It serves as an example of how development can continue responsibly, even amid global challenges.
Reference(s):
Construction continues in Sri Lanka's Colombo port amid COVID-19
cgtn.com
