Ratmalana Irrigation Workers' Housing Scheme:

Minister wants to demolish illegal constructions

Ishara MUDUGAMUWA

The Irrigation and Water Resources Development Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva directed Irrigation Department Officials to demolish all illegal structures at the Rathmalana Irrigation Workers' Housing scheme at a discussion held at the Department with Irrigation Department Officials, a Ministry spokesman said.

This housing scheme is situated in 32 acres and there are 270 irrigation workers' houses.

There are also 60 illegal constructions in the scheme.

The Minister said all retired workers should also hand over their houses soon. The Minister said no employee can occupy the houses for more than five years. There are complaints about those who rent out their houses and live some where else.

The Ministry spends Six million rupees annually for the maintenance of the scheme.