President declares open ‘Lotus Tower’
September 16, 2019Turning a new leaf in the modern history of the country, the ‘Lotus Tower’ was declared open by President Maithripala Sirisena during a ceremony, today (16th September 2019).
The tower, which is South Asia’s tallest, was ceremonially declared open by President Maithripala Sirisena during a colourful ceremony held, this evening.
Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, General (Retd) Shantha Kottegoda, WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc received the President upon his arrival at the venue.
Secretary Defence who is also the Chairman of the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) made the welcome speech.
The 356 m tall Tower is built at a cost of USD 104 million. In addition to having facilities for telecommunication, broadcasting and television transmitting facilities the multi-functional tower also has restaurants and auditoriums. The ‘Antenna Mast’ at the top of the tower which is about 90 m in height is built to enable to host 20 TV channels, 50 FM radio channels and telecommunications services.
One of the specialties of the new landmark of the city is the new rotating restaurant on the fifth stage of the Tower House or the bud shaped part at the top. People can enjoy a breathtaking view at the observation deck, 244m above ground.
President Maithripala Sirisena and the Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka H.E. Cheng Xueyuan exchanged mementos to mark this historic occasion.
The President also launched the official website of the Lotus Tower, www.lotustower.lk at the ceremony.
A special commemorative stamp was also issued to mark this special occasion.
The Lotus Tower construction project was funded by the TRCSL and Exim Bank of China.
Speaker Hon Karu Jayasuriya, Ministers, Members of Parliament, senior state officials, Commanders of the Army and Navy and a large number of special invitees were also present at the occasion.
