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| Friday, 15 October 2004 |
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A large number of private sector firms have shown enthusiasm to participate in the program to develop the road leading to the Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake from Colombo. The project is now being implemented under the direction of the Ministry of Public Security, Law and Order and the Central Environmental Authority with the co-operation of the Ministry of Highways and several state agencies and local authorities of the area. Secretary, Ministry of Public Security, Law and Order Tilak Ranaviraja who initiated the project invited major private sector firms for a discussion at the Institute of International Relations, Horton Place, Colombo. They exchanged views and ideas on ways and means of extending their co-operation and participation in the project. Over 40 companies were represented at the conference by senior executives held on Tuesday. Ranaviraja told invitees that the present Colombo-Katunayake Highway could be considered as a gateway to Sri Lanka. The unfavourable and unpleasant condition of the road had been the concern of many as it gives an unfavourable first impression to a foreign visitor about the country which is well-known for its natural beauty and habitat. He invited the private sector to develop and maintain stretches of the road by planting trees and flower beds at appropriate places that are possible according to plans provided by the Government. They will specify the type of trees and flower plants after inviting suggestions and ideas from those well-versed in the subject. Landscape architects and botanists have prepared blue prints of the developments to be undertaken. The companies could derive and advantage by advertising their products and services in special hoardings harmonising with the environment. He said that many companies which use this road also will stand to benefit from development of the road businesswise. He said that the Road Development Authority is now resurfacing and repairing the road and it is a good time to bring order by giving a facelift on the roadsides and streamlining other infrastructure development and planting trees and flower beds at suitable stretches of the road. The removal of encroachment along the road is now undertaken by the RDA assisted by the Police, Pradeshiya Sabhas and Urban authorities. Telecommunications and Electricity Board authorities have agreed to remove unwanted posts and wires. Action will be taken to improve street lighting along the road which is poorly lit at present. Several company representatives said that development of the Colombo-Katunayake Road was a long-felt need and commended the Secretary for taking the initiative. A large number indicated their willingness to participate in the project. The Secretary said that they would invite companies not represented at the discussion also come forward to assist. The projected costs for each stretch of road will be notified. Deputy Mayor of Colombo Azath Salley said that he fully supported the project and would give his co-operation to develop the road leading from Peliyagoda to the Parliamentary Complex. |
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