Sri Lankan government begins construction of temperature and humidity controlled warehouse for perishables
Economic Reforms and Public Distribution Minister of Sri Lanka Dr. Harsha de Silva and India Deputy High Commissioner Dr. Shilpak N. Ambule recently launched the construction of the first temperature and humidity controlled warehouse complex for perishables in the country with a capacity of 5000 metric tons. The warehouse once completed is expected to store the excess harvest of vegetables and fruits.
The proposed warehouse is to be located at the adjoining land of the Dambulla Economic Centre.
This Agro Cold Storage complex is constructed with Rs. 300 million financial grant from the Government of India and it is scheduled to be completed within six months.
This is done under a concept of Minister Dr. Harsha de Silva – ‘Prabhashwara – A Great Leap Forward for Farmer’s Life’.
The Cold Storage complex in Dambulla is to comprise of six separated sections of different temperature and humidity levels. Using this facility, the farmers in the area will be able to store their excess harvest at a concessionary price for a much longer period.
This initiative will benefit the farming community by reducing post-harvest losses and wastage, particularly in peak season, reports state.
It will also ensure delivery of good quality agro produce to consumers, reports further noted.
This project is a continuation of Government of India’s efforts to partner with the Government of Sri Lanka in people-oriented community development projects, the Indian High Commission in Colombo has stated.
About, 20 such projects are currently under progress. The overall development portfolio of Government of India in Sri Lanka is close to US$ 3 billion out of which US$ 560 million are in grants.
OSL take:
The government of Sri Lanka is looking at methods to modernise the country’s agriculture sector by improving productivity and introducing latest technologies. The proposed warehouse would help in this aspect. Therefore, foreign businesses/investors could explore business/investment opportunities in Sri Lanka’s agriculture sector.
| Article Code : | VBS/AT/09042019/Z_5 |