'Make best use of old bridges'

Dharma SRI ABEYRATNE

President Mahinda Rajapaksa advised officials recently to shift old iron bridges, which are redundant in certain locations to spots where they are most in need.

Accordingly, old iron bridges, which had been constructed using solid steel many decades ago, but are still in good condition will be relocated.

New bridges have been constructed instead of making use of these old iron bridges since these bridges are ill-equipped to ease the heavy traffic congestion on roads.

After several decades, old narrow bridges were found to be insufficient to cater to the ever increasing traffic. Hence, it is common to see traffic congestion throughout the day since the vehicles are moving only in one direction at a time.

The President also advised Ports and Highways Ministry officials to take measures to relocate those iron bridges after identifying them. Under this programme, officials will consider public requirement to relocate a bridge.

The President pointed out that old iron bridges can be seen at many places, such as, Alawwa, Ratnapura.

"These bridges can be relocated at places where a bridge is most needed for the betterment of the public and transportation" President Rajapaksa noted.

"By relocating these old iron bridges, millions of rupees in funds, which have to be used for a new bridge can be saved," a Ports and Highways Ministry official said.

He added that many new bridges are being constructed instead of the old iron bridges by the government in line with the infrastructure development activities carried out in all districts.

"For instance a 326 metre long new bridge is being built next to the ancient Kalladi Bridge (Lady Manning Bridge) in Batticaloa town.