US support for East’s economic, social development
US ambassador to Sri Lanka Michele J. Sison opened a public market
and a bus station in Pullumalai, Batticaloa on Monday, helping enhance
transportation and livelihood opportunities of local communities in the
Eastern Province.
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US ambassador to Sri Lanka Michele J.
Sison opened a public market and a bus station in Pullumalai,
Batticaloa |
Built under a grant of Rs 60 million by the United States Agency for
International Development (USAID), the newly constructed market and bus
station will not only promote income generation opportunities and social
integration among different ethnic communities resettling after many
years of conflict, but will also boost economic growth in the region.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Sison said the new market complex
will provide Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim farmers, fishermen and traders
with a common place to sell their goods and establish a common forum for
meeting and exchange.
“The new bus station will provide communities in Pullumullai and
neighbouring areas with a swift transportation service for their daily
needs,” she said.
The market complex, with toilets and water supply, will allow the
community to sell vegetables, fruits and fish as they did prior to the
conflict, helping them rebuild their lives.
The bus station, as well as the newly renovated access roads will
improve transportation, and help children travel quickly and safely to
school every day, the ambassador said.
USAID has previously supported Pullumalai through improved healthcare
improvements, psychosocial and counseling services, training for
community based organisations, career guidance services, and rural road
rehabilitation. The community serves as an example of the strides a
community can make to rebuild after the conflict.
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