- With the development of the shipping field, large container vessels arrive at the Port of Colombo and therefore it is necessary to provide an efficient tug service to such vessels, by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA). Accordingly, the proposal made by Hon. Arjuna Ranatunga, the Minister of Ports and Shipping, to call for proposals to charter two harbour tugs to the SLPA on rental basis, and to appoint a Cabinet Appointed Negotiation Committee to appraise successful proposals and make recommendations, was approved by the Cabinet.