Southern Expressway:

Finish construction by August, directs President

Chaminda PERERA

President Mahinda Rajapaksa on Thursday directed officials to complete the construction of the Southern Expressway by August. He stressed the importance of having an arrangement through which the Southern Expressway can be opened for the public by August.

Addressing a meeting on the Southern Expressway construction at Temple Trees, President Rajapaksa drew special attention to access fees to the Expressway. Matters related to the management and maintenance of the Expressway also came under discussion. President Rajapaksa instructed Engineering Services, Housing and Common Amenities Minister Wimal Weerawansa over the phone to complete the construction of buildings on either side of the Expressway soon.

Deputy Ports and Highways Minister Rohitha Abeygunawardena, Nirmala Kotalawala, Finance Ministry Secretary P B Jayasundara, Ports and Highways Ministry Secretary Sujatha Cooray were present.