Bridge building project to boost connectivity

The government will accord high priority to connectivity improvements to mainstream development activities down to the grassroots level. The Cabinet has entrusted the task of constructing 4,000 bridges in rural areas to boost transport facilities.

According to Provincial Councils and Local Government Ministry Secretary Kamal Padmasiri, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands offer a loan aid to the value of Rs. 44,100 million for the rural bridge construction project. The UK grants Rs. 27,600 million whereas the Netherlands offers Rs. 16,500 million. Padmasiri said 1,000 rural bridges would be put up in village areas replacing hanging bridges, tree trucks bridges and causeway bridges.