Basil launches 210 bridge building programme

The rural bridge building projects are part of the President's programme for rapid development, Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa said.

Addressing four meetings last week to mark the commencement of the construction of 210 new bridges to link villages with towns island-wide, Minister Rajapaksa said the bridges would strengthen the plantation and agro-economies and give greater impetus to the Maga Neguma-to-Gama Neguma programme which has already raised the productivity level and quality of life of villagers since 75 percent of the population live in rural areas.

The ceremonies were held at Rattota, Laggala, Ambagahakorale and Yatawatte, Matale.

The minister inaugurated the construction work of new bridges at the villages of Pahala Hapuwida, Epitamulla, Loluwela and Kutapola Yaaya.

Minister Rajapaksa said the rural bridge building projects were part of the President's programme for rapid development.

"The new bridges would help rural people to overcome the immense difficulties they face, especially during inclement weather since the construction would be able to withstand natural disasters," he said.

The Construction Agency is 'Cleveland Bridge' UK. The bridges vary in length from six metres to 30 metres increments of two metres. All constructions are expected to be completed by 2015.

Higher Education Deputy Minister Nandimithra Ekanayaka, Deputy Transport Minister, Rohana Dissanayake, Matale District MP Lakshman Wasantha Perera and Provincial Minister Bandula Yalegama also spoke.

Matale Government Agent K.H.A. Meegasmulla and Provincial Council and Pradeshiya Sabha members were also present.