Colombo Divisional Secretariats introduce card payment facilities

Colombo, July 2 (Daily Mirror) - All 13 Divisional Secretariat Offices in the Colombo District have introduced credit and debit card payment facilities as part of the Government's drive to modernise public services through digitalisation.

The new payment system was officially launched at the Thimbirigasyaya Divisional Secretariat by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.

During the event, the Prime Minister inaugurated point-of-sale (POS) machines installed at the Registrar's Division and the Vehicle Revenue Licence Division and observed the issuance of birth certificates and vehicle revenue licences using the new payment system.

The initiative, implemented by the Colombo District Secretariat with financial and technical support from the Bank of Ceylon, enables the public to make secure payments using credit and debit cards for government services that require payment.

Addressing the ceremony, Prime Minister Amarasuriya said improving the efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of public services through digital technology remains a key priority of the Government. She noted that the new system allows citizens to access services more conveniently without the need to carry cash.

Officials said the card payment facility will speed up transactions, reduce cash handling, improve financial transparency and accountability, minimise the risk of fraud, and support the country's digital economy.

The facility is now available at all Divisional Secretariat Offices in the Colombo District, with the Government expecting it to further strengthen financial governance and deliver more citizen-friendly public services.