Sri Lanka, Dec. 8 -- World Cities Day 2025 was marked in Wennappuwa with the launch of the Hamilton Canal Reverine Concept Master Plan Proposal, prepared by the Sri Lanka Institute of Urban Designers and unveiled at the Wennappuwa Pradeshiya Sabha premises. Held under the theme "People-centred Smart Cities," the event highlighted a decisive shift in Sri Lanka's development approach. It called for strengthening local institutions instead of depending entirely on centralised authorities to manage every aspect of urban development.

The initiative reflects a growing understanding that local authorities and Pradeshiya Sabhas must be empowered with tools, mechanisms and resources to address rapid urban changes. As the tier of Government closes...