Expedite work on Katugastota bridge, orders President

Rohan MATHES

KANDY: President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday directed contractors of the Katugastota Bridge to expedite construction work which has been stagnant for over three years, President’s media sources said.

President Rajapaksa gave this directive when he made a surprise inspection tour to assess the progress in the construction of the Katugastota Bridge in Kandy yesterday. The President was of the view that the non-completion of the bridge would greatly inconvenience the people.

The 130 metre long and 20 metre wide bridge which spans the Mahaweli river and is close to Kandy, links to the Kandy-Jaffna highway. It consists of four lanes. The bridge will ease traffic congestion, enhance road security and develop regional tourism.

It is also envisaged that approach facilities to the city for all traffic would be enhanced. The Kuwaiti Government which is funding the project, has already advanced Rs. 283 million.

Local funds amounting to Rs. 122 million has also been invested.