Seminar on Management of Ocean Resources

Chamber of Construction Industry Sri Lanka has organized a seminar on Management of Ocean Resources with the objective of enlightening construction industry stakeholders on potential for consultancy and contracting opportunities in the exploitation of Sri Lanka’s Ocean Resources. With the Government of Sri Lanka taking positive steps to undertake Oil and Gas exploration activities, a large number of business opportunities will become available for the construction industry, opening new horizons.

The Chamber has successfully articulated offshore sand as an alternative for river sand for construction purposes consequent to the banning of large scale river sand mining which has caused irreparable damages to the environment such as collapsing of river banks, intrusion of sea water and a total change in the echo system. Chamber however, has expressed its concern regarding the procurement process that has been implemented for offshore sand mining in the recent past.

In the economic development of offshore resources necessary safeguards have to be taken to ensure protection of the marine environment and prevention of pollution a subject that will be dealt at length at this forum.

If Sri Lanka is to obtain fullest benefits of exploiting the vast ocean resources it is enriched with, not only the institutional and policy frame work which is an essential pre-requisite should be strengthened but also the required infrastructure must be developed. Technical and Managerial Human Resources Development and Capacity Building will have to be immediately commenced so that the domestic construction industry will reap the fullest benefits of this national endeavour.

The correct exploitation of Ocean Resources will accrue substantial benefits to all supporting industries by providing a large number of contracting opportunities including pipe laying, underwater welding, building of storage tanks, structures, piers, pumping stations among many others. The process of initiating backward integration for Oil and Gas exploitation must commence.

The Forum will be addressed by some of the most knowledgeable and internationally respected resource persons in the calibre of Dr. Hiran Jayawardena, Dr. Neil De Silva, Dr. Wijeyananda, Dr. Ranjith Mahindapala, Dr. Kapila Perera, Mr. Nissanka Perera among many others.

This seminar has already generated substantial domestic and regional interest for those who are seeking business and investment opportunities on other marine deposit exploitation as well.

This seminar will also provide a new learning experience to decision makers and those who will be engaged in the development of legislative enactments, institutional frame work and to other pubic offices engaged in Marine Sector.

Dr. Sarath Amunugama Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion will deliver the key note address as the Chief Guest.