Deyata Kirula brings mega-development to Anuradhapura

Chamikara Weerasinghe

Anuradhapura has seen unprecedented development through the Deyata Kirula national development exhibition, said North Central Province chairman Tennakoon Mudiyanselage Ranhamige Siripala yesterday.

“Development in Anuradhapura has moved decisively. I have been a member of the North Central Provincial Council for over 20 years.

‘This is the first time that we have seen “such massive” development in Anuradhapura under any programme,” said Siripala.

“About a year ago people in rural areas, such as, Thanthirimala, Nochchiyagama, Raajangane and Oyamaduwa, could not even dream about travelling on carpeted roads or think of reaching a health care facility in their villages with so much ease,” explained Siripala.

Deyata Kirula has brought about massive road development in Anuradhapura to improve rural transport. The government has spent Rs 200 million to develop the rural road network. This is in addition to developing major roads . Farmers do not experience rough rides on bumpy roads due to road development that had taken place in the light of Deyata Kirula,” he said.

‘Thousands of people who were suffering without electricity and lack of drinking water have got electricity and water because of Deyata Kirula’, he said.

“The government had given away 1,000 roofing tiles for 5,000 families in the North Central Province. Steps were taken to improve sanitary facilities in schools under the programme. Many irrigation projects that were started to coincide with Deyata Kirula, have benefited thousands of farmers in Anuradhapura. The programme has even established postal services in villages with IT facilities”, he said.

“President Mahinda Rajapaksa has also allocated funds for the construction of a play ground of international standard for Anuradhapura, said Siripala.

‘Moves are also under way to construct a 2000-seat auditorum for Anuradhapura. Prime Minister D M Jayaratne has promised his support to us in this endeavour”, he added.

Nineteen water supply projects have also been initiated in line with Deyata Kirula. Eighty percent of the provinces electricity requirement has been met as a result of the programme, he said.

According to Siripala , Deyata Kirula has expedited development in the North Central Provice by 10 to 20 years.

The Economic Development Ministry has played a major role in this process.

All ministries have contributed to the success, he added.