News
Integrated security system to monitor movements of people
An integrated security system linking key departments, including the Immigration, Registration of Persons, will be placed before the Cabinet soon.
The project is estimated to cost about Rs. 40 bln, and is under discussion by the Home Affairs Ministry in consultation with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and the respective departments.
Home Affairs Minister Vajira Abeywardena said the funds would be raised through a long-term foreign loan, and from the Treasury and the rest through a grant from the UN which supports international border management.
Under the plan, introduction of software enabling the departments to keep track of movements of foreign nationals, if required, from the time of arrival at the airport.
The minister said the system would also enable the authorities to track down foreigners who overstay their visas.
He said that even the movements of Sri Lankans could be monitored through the integrated system.
He said they hoped to implement the scheme within six months.
“We may require changes in the laws. We will seek cabinet approval for the amendments,” he said.