Amidst a backdrop of significant challenges to cross border mobility, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and economic crises, Sri Lanka is poised for a phase of recovery and growth. With a notable surge in visitor arrivals, there is a critical need to enhance the readiness of Points of Entry (PoE) to support economic revival by ensuring efficient operations and preparing effectively for public health emergencies. In response to this need, the Government of Japan has extended a grant of USD 8.4 million to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, channeled through the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The Sri Lankan component of the project aims to strengthen capacities at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) and Colombo Port. 

 

Objectives

The project aims to fortify capacities at BIA and Colombo Port to effectively respond to public health emergencies, such as pandemics and infectious diseases. By improving the capacity to facilitate safe, secure, effective passenger processing and health screening at PoEs, reducing physical contact points, waiting time and congestions will improve traveller confidence driving the potential for a boost in tourism and business travel, offers an opportunity for mobility to return to pre-pandemic levels and adapt to the post-pandemic reality.
 

Specific objectives include:

  1. Enhancing operational efficiency, security, and safety at BIA and Colombo Port in compliance with International Health Regulations (IHR) (2005).
  2. Improving medical waste handling at BIA and Colombo Port for safe disposal and reducing negative environmental and health impacts.
  3. Strengthening border health compliance through comprehensive training and capacity building programs.
  4. Creating a safe and hygienic environment for passengers, crew, and staff at BIA and Colombo Port.
Key Areas of Investment
  1. Infrastructure Enhancement: Cutting-edge equipment and facilities will be provided to BIA and Colombo Port, including advanced baggage scanners, full-body scanner, Automated Border Control (ABC) gates (e-Gates) with Face Recognition System (AFRS), full-page e-passport scanners, mechanized airport trolley powered tugs/pushers and biometric-based access control systems for BIA, and a four-story office building being constructed for the Port Health Service at Colombo Port, among other infrastructure development activities. Additionally, approximately 150 washrooms at BIA will be renovated with sensor-operated, touchless equipment.
  2. Medical Facilities and Waste Disposal Mechanisms: At BIA, a fully equipped isolation room will be constructed to ensure readiness for any health emergencies. Additionally, medical facilities at both BIA and Colombo Port will be upgraded, featuring fully equipped ambulances and medical devices. Waste disposal capabilities will also see improvements at both BIA and Colombo Port, including the introduction of a Compact Refuse Collector Truck, 50 units of Euro-carts for efficient lifting of tons of waste, and Stainless-Steel Heavy Duty Trio-Dustbins at BIA, all contributing to enhanced waste management strategies.
  3. Capacity Building and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Development: To fortify border health compliance and safeguard against infectious diseases, the project will initiate comprehensive training and capacity-building programs. These efforts will focus on equipping staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively implement SOPs. The development of SOPs will be a key component, ensuring that the standardized protocols are in place for seamless operations and emergency response measures.
  4. Equipment for Sri Lanka Diplomatic Missions: Biometric enrollment workstations will be provided to 20 Sri Lankan Diplomatic Missions, to facilitate faster and efficient processing passport applications by the Missions overseas with direct connection with the passport issuance system of the Department of Immigration and Emigration.
Project Implementation

The project is implemented under the guidance and direction of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation, in close coordination with key stakeholders including Airport & Aviation Services Sri Lanka Limited (AASL), Sri Lanka Ports Authority, the Department of Immigration and Emigration, and Ministries of Health and Foreign Affairs.

Outcomes
  1. Enhanced operational efficiency, security, and safety at BIA and Colombo Port.
  2. Improved capacity to respond to public health emergencies.
  3. Strengthened border health compliance and protection against infectious diseases
  4. Creation of a safe and hygienic environment for all stakeholders.
  5. Support for economic recovery and boosting traveler confidence through improved mobility.
List of Items Donated within the Project 

Comprehensive List of Procured Items

Conclusion

It is anticipated that the project represents a significant step towards ensuring Future-Ready PoE in Sri Lanka's major Entry Points. By enhancing operational efficiency, security, and safety, the project aims to support economic recovery and boost traveler confidence, ultimately contributing to the nation's growth and stability.