CMC to launch massive development drive

COLOMBO: The Colombo Municipal Council will take a gigantic leap during the ensuing year, with the support of the Government, Western Provincial Council and the community leaders, said CMC Opposition Leader and Democratic Left Front Leader Vasudeva Nanayakkara.

Nanayakkara in a release yesterday said the proposed projects include garbage disposal in Colombo North, prevention of water logging in the city even after a small down pour and providing stable shelter to shanty dwellers under President's 65,000 housing programme.

The Council plans to restore public lavatories, libraries and community halls and give unauthorised settlers a permanent status according to the voters' registers.

The Council expects to collect revenue, the Council has failed to collect as rates to achieve these goals and improve the productivity of Municipal employees while minimising waste and corruption, the media release stated.

"A Common Charter with the backing of the Central Government and the Western Provincial Council will be adopted to bring about the expected revival during the year 2007, the message stated.