Following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Sri Lanka, plans are reportedly underway to establish an international cricket stadium in Mandaitivu, Jaffna, with the Indian government expected to provide financial backing for the project.
Sri Lanka’s Sports Minister Sunil Gamage confirmed ongoing discussions with the Indian High Commission, alongside efforts from Sri Lanka to secure support. Former cricketer and parliamentarian Sanath Jayasuriya is reported to have made a direct request to Modi, while Gamage said he had raised the matter with India’s envoy in Colombo.
“This initiative is expected to provide greater opportunities for youth in the Northern Province and enhance cricket infrastructure,” Gamage told NewsWire. “We will go ahead with this project. The source of funds is what we need to finalise now.”
Jaffna Security Forces Commander Major General Manada Yahampath also joined the delegation during a recent visit to inspect the proposed site for the stadium. His presence has raised further concerns about the continued involvement of the Sri Lankan military in civilian affairs across the Tamil North-East.
The proposed location in Mandaitivu, however, has drawn criticism from environmental advocates. The designated land lies in the middle of a lagoon and is part of a mangrove reserve. Environmentalists have warned that disturbing such an ecologically fragile area could have devastating consequences for local biodiversity and compromise the island’s natural flood defences.
Mangrove ecosystems are vital to coastal protection and serve as critical habitats for a range of species. Their destruction for development projects has historically resulted in long-term environmental degradation, particularly in regions already facing climate vulnerability.
