Resumption of the Kandy Gatambe Flyover Project: A Strategic Infrastructure Development
- Vithanage Erandi
- 8 minutes ago
- 2 min read
V . E . K . Madhushani, jadetimes staff
KANDY – Construction work on the Kandy Gatambe Flyover, a critical infrastructure project aimed at easing urban congestion, officially resumed today (February 06) under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The project, which had been stalled for several years due to external financial constraints, marks a significant step in revitalizing the region’s transport network.
Project Background and Financial Restructuring
The flyover project was originally initiated in 2021 with an estimated budget of Rs. 14.37 billion, primarily supported by loan assistance from the Government of Hungary. However, the suspension of Hungarian funding amidst the country’s recent economic crisis led to an indefinite halt in construction.
In a strategic shift to ensure the project’s completion, the government has now recommenced construction using domestic funds totaling Rs. 12.27 billion. The Road Development Authority (RDA) aims to finalize the project within a 22 month timeline.
Engineering and Structural Specifications
The flyover is strategically located along William Gopallawa Mawatha, originating from the southern bank of the Mahaweli River on Gannoruwa Road. It spans the Gatambe junction and the existing railway line. The structural design includes:
· Main Flyover: A 374 metre dual-carriageway structure extending up to the railway line. The dual-lane section features a width of 9.4 metres, expanding to a 12.9 metre three lane section at key intervals.
· Auxiliary Flyover: Measuring 172 metres in length and 6.5 metres in width, this structure will connect the Peradeniya approach to the main flyover.
· Traffic Management: By spanning the railway line, the three lane carriageway will facilitate an uninterrupted flow for vehicles traveling from Kandy to Peradeniya, effectively eliminating delays currently caused by the railway crossing.
Presidential Oversight and Official Attendance
During the ceremony, President Dissanayake conducted an inspection of the technical blueprints and engaged in discussions with project engineers to ensure adherence to the new timeline.
The event was attended by several high ranking officials, including:
· Minister of Transport, Highways, and Urban Development: Bimal Rathnayake
· Deputy Minister of Transport and Highways: Prasanna Gunasena
· Governor of the Central Province: Professor S.B.S. Abeykoon
· Kandy District MP: Thanura Dissanayake
· Kandy District Secretary: Indika Udawatte
· Senior Officials of the Road Development Authority (RDA).
This resumption signals a robust commitment to utilizing domestic resources to address national infrastructure priorities and enhance the daily commute for thousands of residents in the Kandy district.
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