By: Kanchana Kumara Ariyadasa
Ten years ago, a tourist information center project was started in the heart of Habarana town on the Dambulla Road. It has now become a “white elephant” that has wasted public money and been abandoned halfway through. What was once a promising construction now lies in ruins, consumed by the surrounding jungle.
Upon visiting the site, we saw that the once-beautiful buildings—which were meant to include large structures, swimming pools, memorial areas, lecture halls, and lodging complexes similar to a star-class hotel—are now in a state of decay.
According to local residents, the project was initiated by former Chief Minister Peshala Jayaratne, based on a project concept report submitted by the North Central Provincial Ministry of Tourism on January 8, 20
14. The total estimated cost was Rs. 50,000,000. This included Rs. 300,000 for site selection, planning, and approvals, and Rs. 49,700,000 for construction.
The project was proposed for a nearly 5-acre plot of land that belonged to a closed hume pipe factory near the main Dambulla-Habarana road in the Palugaswewa Divisional Secretariat area. Survey work was completed on April 20, 2016, and the total land area was recorded as 2.1931 hectares. The Rs. 8,000,000 allocated for land acquisition was paid to the Provincial Treasury on February 19, 2025, completing that process.
Despite a portion of the building work being completed, the entire project has been halted. Local residents call this a major crime, especially since Habarana is currently bustling with tourists. They point out that if these buildings were completed and put to use quickly, they could provide much-needed facilities for tourists and generate a significant income.
