Rising Skyrises, Sinking Infrastructure

Day by day, we witness an increasing number of high-rise buildings being constructed across Colombo and its suburbs. While such vertical expansion is often portrayed as a mark of progress, it brings with it a set of serious urban challenges that are being conveniently overlooked.

A surge in apartment complexes means a sharp rise in population density within limited city spaces. However, the supporting infrastructure — sewerage systems, water supply networks, drainage, and waste management — has seen little to no corresponding improvement. These systems, already under severe strain, are now expected to serve thousands more residents without any meaningful upgrading.

Traffic congestion, too, is worsening. With more residents come more vehicles, but the city’s road network remains stagnant. The result is a daily struggle for commuters and a mounting environmental burden.

It is therefore perplexing that the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) continues to approve new high-rise projects without first ensuring the enhancement of essential services and infrastructure. Development should be sustainable, not superficial — and basic facilities must rise in tandem with the skyline. Over to newly elected  CMC Mayoress Ms Vraie Cally Balthazaar for her response.

Mohamed Zahran

Colombo