Sri Lanka, Jan. 13 -- The Government yesterday (12) unveiled plans to restart several long-delayed mixed-development projects and abandoned high-rise buildings in Colombo by the end of the first quarter of the year.

Speaking at a media briefing, Housing, Construction and Water Supply Deputy Minister T.B. Sarath said the initiative is aimed at reactivating idle urban assets and accelerating development that was held back by irregularities, financial mismanagement and the economic downturn.

He said discussions have already been held with contractors and other stakeholders, while a Ministerial Consultative Committee comprising officials from the Urban Development Authority (UDA) and the National Housing Development Authority (NHDA) has be...