Minister refutes Opposition allegation

Hemanthi Guruge

Construction, Engineering Services, Housing and Common Amenities Minister Wimal Weerawansa has refuted the Opposition allegation that funds have not been allocated for the Janasevana Housing Program from the budget.

Steps would be taken to provide maximum possible services to the public by the Janasevana Housing program, Minister also said.

Construction work of the Sinhapura housing scheme at the Wanathamulla commenced yesterday(01) under the patronage of Construction, Engineering Services, Housing and Common Amenities Minister.

The housing scheme with 60 flats will be built at a cost of Rs 150 million. This housing scheme aims to provide houses for urban underprivilege communities. The Urban Settlement Development Authority has provided financial assistance for construction.

The State Engineering Corporation will handle the construction work of this scheme which is scheduled to be completed within six months.

The Minister also pointed out that one million houses are to be constructed within six years under the Janasevana Program. However, the Government had spent Rs 33 billion during the last few months to facilitate those displaced and for damaged properties.

Deputy Minister Lasantha Alagiyawanna, Secretary to the Minister Gotabaya Jayaratne, Parliamentarian Thilanga Sumathipala, Western Province Minister Udaya Gammanpila and several other members were also present.