In the project to transform Jaffna into a model healthy city, rather than mere discussions, feasible aspects must be implemented immediately. The Governor of the Northern Province, Hon. N. Vethanayahan, has issued firm instructions to the relevant officials to demonstrate tangible progress before the next discussion.
A high-level discussion on the Jaffna Healthy City Project was held on Monday – 22 December 2025, at the Governor’s Secretariat, with the participation of the World Health Organization’s Representative for Sri Lanka, Dr. Rajesh Pandav.
Inaugurating the discussion and addressing the gathering, the Governor stated, “This project is a joint initiative undertaken by the Jaffna Municipal Council, the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Jaffna, and the Northern Provincial Council. Our goal is to integrate excellent infrastructure, medical expertise, and community engagement to transform Jaffna into a ‘Model Healthy City.’ Greater attention must be paid to addressing the city’s immediate problems.”
The WHO Representative, Dr. Rajesh Pandav, expressed his views, saying, “I personally observed the situation in the Northern Province following the recent disaster. A healthy city project can only be fully accomplished with the participation of the people. The project must be advanced by obtaining input from the public on what the community’s needs are and what is feasible.”
It was revealed that although the project has been discussed multiple times, many aspects have not yet been implemented.
Matters that should be carried out based on the agreement signed seven years ago between the Jaffna Municipal Council and the City of Toronto, Canada, were also extensively reviewed.
Stating that delaying even tasks that can be done immediately, aside from long-term needs, is unacceptable, the Hon. Governor advised forming a sub-committee for rapid implementation. Furthermore, he set a deadline for officials to complete and implement the ordinary items on the action list before the next meeting.
The discussion was attended by many participants, including the Hon. Mayor of Jaffna Municipal Council, the Secretary to the Governor, the Planning Director of the Jaffna District Secretariat, Additional Provincial Director of Education, Zonal Director of Education – Jaffna, senior police officers and school principals.
