Rs. 12 Billion Hospital Complex Planned for Dambulla to Ease Overcrowding
DAMBULLA, October 11, 2026 — A new hospital complex estimated to cost Rs. 12 billion is planned for Dambulla to address overcrowding and space constraints at the Dambulla Base Hospital, strengthening healthcare infrastructure for residents across four districts.
Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa inspected the proposed project site on October 10, as authorities moved forward with preliminary planning for the development.
The hospital complex is planned for approximately five acres of land in Pohoranwewa, within the Dambulla Divisional Secretariat Division. The land has been allocated by the Rangiri Dambulla Raja Maha Viharaya for the proposed healthcare facility.
During the inspection, Acting Medical Superintendent Dr. Aruna Kumara briefed the minister on the proposed location and master plan. Discussions also covered preliminary planning requirements, engineering reports and the steps needed to initiate construction without unnecessary delays.
Minister Jayatissa instructed officials to take the necessary measures to commence initial development work at the site before the end of 2026.
The proposed complex is expected to improve access to healthcare services for people across Matale, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kurunegala districts, while addressing capacity limitations affecting the existing Dambulla Base Hospital.
The development comes amid Dambulla’s growing importance as a regional economic, tourism and transportation hub. Its strategic location attracts substantial movement of residents, traders, agricultural producers and visitors, increasing the importance of accessible and adequately equipped healthcare facilities.
Once developed, the new hospital complex is expected to strengthen the region’s capacity to deliver healthcare services and support the medical needs of communities across the surrounding districts.
The proposed Rs. 12 billion investment represents a significant planned addition to Dambulla’s public healthcare infrastructure. However, the project’s implementation will depend on progress through the necessary planning, engineering and construction stages.
