Bridge in Badulla completed with Japanese funds

THE Lunugala Bridge constructed with funds from the Japanese Government was opened by Ambassador Akio Suda.

The Japanese Government under its grant assistance for Grass roots Human Security Projects provided US$ 30,029 (approximately Rs. 3 million) in February 2004 to the Passara Pradeshiya Sabha for the construction of this bridge in the Badulla district.

This grant assistance was part of Rs. 8.4 million provided for five rural development projects to the Badulla district that included the construction of this bridge and also projects related to road development, water supply and agriculture production.

Prior to the bridge being built, people had to wade into the river to cross onto the other side. This not only inconvenienced them, but was also a negative factor in harnessing rural development needed in the Badulla district.

The Japanese Government places much emphasis on programs towards poverty reduction in its Overseas Development Assistance and was quick to respond to such need to stimulate the process of rural development in the area.

This bridge built across Kumbukkan Oya enabled the Sooriyagoda village to be linked to Lunugala town, so that a good transportation and communication system could be operational and would improve the living conditions of the people.

The High Commissioners wife Dewi, Dr. Yuji Miyahara, First Secretary and Ayako Tanaka, Consultant of the Embassy of Japan and Passara Pradeshiya Sabha officials were present.