Colombo circular road to be completed by 2011

Irangika Range

COLOMBO: The Government has decided to pay Rs.37 million worth compensation for 50 people who will lose their lands with the commencement of construction of the outer circular road of Colombo. The ceremony will take place today. Minister of Highways and Road Development Jeyaraj Fernandopulle will be the chief guest.

The estimated cost for the road is Rs.3300 million while the distance is 28km. Ministry Coordinator Sarath Manamendra told the Daily News that the Ministry will call for tenders this year expecting to complete construction by 2011.

He said this is the third stage of paying compensation. It has already paid Rs.400 million for 300 people. The outer circular road has three stages Kottawa to Kaduwela, Kaduwela to Kadawatha and Kadawatha to Kerawalapitiya.

The construction will begin by connecting to the Colombo-Katunayake highway. The Southern highway too will be connected to the circular road. The maximum speed would be 80km.

This alternative will also benefit people by saving fuel and minimising traffic jams. "We expect to pay another Rs.600 million as compensation and construction will follow immediately," he said.