Series of facilities for urban settlers

The Urban Settlement Development Authority acting on the directions of Construction, Engineering Services, Housing and Common Amenities Minister Wimal Weerawansa has launched a programme to provide a series of facilities and dividends for residents in urban settlements concurrent to the World Habitat Day which falls on October 1.

wIt includes the award of title deeds under the Jana Sarana project to 1000 flat dwellers and low income group urban settlements programme of self employment avenues to 500 urban youth, opening of 2000 childrens savings accounts by educating community and childrens societies, organizing literary, drama and cultural contests among schoolchildren and youth in urban areas in addition to sports events to develop literary and sports skills among the younger generation said a press release issued by the Construction, Engineering Services, Housing and Common Amenities Ministry.

Steps have been taken to educate the beneficiaries of this programme through a house to house campaign. A house to house campaign was held in Nagaswatte in Kirulapana, Halgahakumbura in Borella, Wadullawatta in Colombo Central and Sri Wickramapura in Colombo North on August 18. A Habitat Week will also be held from September 24 to 30.

Chairman Urban Settlement (Habitat) Development Authority Palitha Gamage and other officers are conducting a house to house campaign to educate residents of urban settlements on the World Habitat Day celebrations.