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19 bridges to be mended with World Bank aid
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Wellampitiya bridge. Pic by Eshan fernando
By Kasun Warakapitiya
The World Bank has allocated US$7.5 million (Rs 2.25 billion) to carry out urgent repairs on 19 bridges across the country, Transport and Highways Ministry secretary Ranjith Rubasinghe said.
This follows a statement by Highways Minister Bandula Gunawardene who said that over 30 bridges require repairs.
The World Bank has been funding road projects in Sri Lanka for decades.
Mr. Rubasinghe said: “We have planned to repair bridges giving priority to those that are in a more critical condition. We got funding from the World Bank.’’
He said the scheduled dates of maintenance had passed for most bridges.
Mr. Rubasinghe assured that shortlisted bridges are not a danger to people, but urgent repairs have to be done.
Senior officials of the ministry said when repairs are undertaken, they also consider wear and tear and damage to structures from adverse weather.
Road Development Authority (RDA) Chairman C.P Athuluwage said that there are over 30 bridges that have to be repaired and the ministry had shortlisted some for urgent repairs and provided the extent of the needed repairs, costs and the process, via his office.
However, his office staff said that they would provide the data later.
Some of the 19 bridges which require repairs are situated in in the areas of Embilipitiya-Middeniya, Welikada-Kohilawatta and Negombo-Mirigama (see full list of bridges in graphic).
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