The Cabinet has approved the proposal by the Megapolis Project to introduce a Light Rail Transit (LRT) system for mass transit in the Western Province.
While the long term plan developed by the Megapolis team includes an LRT network of approximately 75kms, the initial investment is to cover around 25kms, connecting Fort, Kollupitiya, Bambalapitiya, Borella, Maradana, Rajagiriya, Battaramulla and Malambe.
The initial segments of the LRT system will be elevated, given the high density of existing development. However, elements of the network to follow are expected to be at grade. The LRT system is also expected to interconnect with the rail and bus networks to provide part of an integrated solution.
The government will seek concessional financing from Japan for the LRT. The Megapolis transport strategy places a sharp focus on improvement of mass transit. The overall plan includes introduction of a light rail system, electrification of railways, modernisation of the bus transportation system as well as an introduction of canal transport. It also includes the implementation of some immediate measures such as introduction of CCTV monitoring to strengthen enforcement, introduction of staggered working hours, synchronisation of traffic. “Finding a sustainable and long term solution for the city's increasing congestion is one of the primary targets of the Megapolis project,” Western Region Megapolis Project Chairman Ajita de Costa said. “The introduction of LRT will be truly transformation for our city. Achieving consensus within government around this critical intervention after much debate is also an achievement,” he said.
Light rail, also referred to as light metro, is a proven technology used in many countries as the preferred mode of mass transit. It forms the backbone of transport networks in Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, New Delhi, Calgary, Gold Coast, Dallas, Los Angeles and many other major cities worldwide.
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