“Mathrubhumi” Calls for Investigation into Pentara Residencies

A new benchmark in luxury urban living was introduced on 21 June at Cinnamon Life, with the grand launch of Pentara Residencies — the flagship development by the Home Lands Group. This project represents the largest single investment in a high-rise residential complex undertaken by a Sri Lankan developer.

Strategically located at Thummulla Handiya, one of Colombo’s most coveted and central junctions connecting Colombo 3, 4, 5, and the elite Colombo 7, Pentara Residencies has been positioned as “The Address in Colombo.”

This iconic twin-tower development promises to redefine modern luxury living in the heart of the city.

However, Former UDA Chairman Mr. Kumudulal has filed a police complaint against a recent media report which accused him of illegally approving a major high-rise housing project by Home Lands (Pvt) Ltd in Thummulla, Colombo 05. He claims the report is false and defamatory.

 

However, the media report is based on documented legal submissions to the Court of Appeal and on the UDA’s own internal regulations. It highlights serious alleged violations in the approval process:

Key Alleged Irregularities

• Zoning Rules Violated – The land, officially designated as a special residential zone, was improperly treated as mixed-development to allow the project.
• Height Limit Breach – Approval was given for a 120-metre tower, despite regulations setting a strict maximum of 50 metres.
• Fabricated Façade Width – The building’s façade width was falsified as 40 metres to meet compliance, though the real width is under 30 metres.

Police sources say that while the ex-Chairman has filed a complaint against the media, seventeen complaints from local residents have been filed against him at the Kurunduwatte Police Station — indicating strong public opposition.

The report also alleges that despite being officially removed from office, Mr. Kumudulal is still trying to act as UDA Chairman and has even called for a Board of Management meeting at Water’s Edge next Saturday, believed to be an attempt to retain influence.

The statement praises the role of journalists in defending law, environmental standards, and public rights. It says attempts to threaten or silence the media only prove the existence of wrongdoing.

The civil organisation “MATHRUBHUMI” is now calling on the new Urban Development Minister, Hon. Bimal Ratnayake, to:

 

• Immediately investigate the alleged illegal approval
• Protect media freedom
• Ensure responsible accountability under the law

They further state their commitment to continue exposing corruption despite intimidation, and confirm that they will soon file an official bribery/corruption case against the former Chairman.