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| Saturday, 16 August 2003 |
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"Most of the projects that are commenced in Sri Lanka are almost never completed, but the construction of the 2nd phase of the Kelanisiri Bridge which connects Kolonnawa and Kelaniya is guaranteed to be successfully completed. "The main reason for this is that Rs. 500 million has been allocated and set aside for this purpose; this allocation of the total amount was achieved because of the growth in the economy as a result of the prevailing peace process in Sri Lanka," said Minister of Enterprise Development, Industrial Policy and Investment Promotion and Constitutional Affairs, Prof. G. L. Peiris at the commencement of Phase II construction of the Kelanisiri Bridge which was held at Kelenimulla, Kolonnawa. This project was initiated by the previous government during the initial peace talks but the project was discontinued. Initially a proposal on the necessity of commencing this project was made by the Nayaka Thera of the Kelaniya Temple and the people in that area. Thereafter the Minister G. L. Peiris made submissions to the Minister of Transport and Highways Thilak Marapana who has made financial allocations for this project. After the completion of the project there will be a 50% reduction in traffic and increase in the development of that area. Currently the only way that the people can travel across the river is by way of rafts and many persons have met with accidents, even resulting in death as a result of unsafe mode of transportation. The construction of this bridge would not only benefit the citizens of that area but also the horde of pilgrims that arrive to visit the Kelaniya Maha Viharaya during poya. "Everybody is aware that this area will undergo a tremendous change after the construction of this bridge resulting in a boost of the economic condition too. The benefits as a result of this bridge can be experienced in the near future. It is essential that we take some time to reflect as to why such a long time has taken to recommence this project." The amount required for this construction is Rs. 150 million. Minister Thilak Marapana was able to allocate this money not for any other reason but because of the prevailing peace process which has lasted to-date owing to the initiative taken by the government. Whatever various persons may say, this is the longest time that peace has been sustained in the history of the 20-year war," Minister Peiris said. "The money otherwise spent on war can now be utilised for the development of this country. It is necessary to identify our priorities, and refrain from creating further problems and turmoil. There are some people who are attempting to destabilise the economy of Sri Lanka. The time has come for the people of this country to decide whether we want or to develop our country further by the monetary resources that are available with existence of peace?", Peiris said. The Minister has signed up to five agreements with China to develop the trade affairs and economic activities in Sri Lanka. The Prime Minister has also organised six large companies to commence operation. All this is possible only because of peace. There is a significant improvement in the tourism industry. The main reason for this is the maintenance of permanent peace for last 1 1/2 years," the Minister concluded. |
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