Mullaitivu, September 2 – Marking a new chapter in Northern infrastructure development, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today inaugurated the construction of the Vadduvakal Bridge in Mullaitivu, reaffirming his government’s commitment to steering the nation towards structured and inclusive growth.
Addressing the gathering, the President underscored that the current administration’s development agenda is driven by a strategic, nationwide plan designed to unlock economic potential and expand opportunities in rural regions. “The country is being steered towards development through a structured programme that identifies economic potential and expands economic opportunities to rural areas,” he said, pledging to lift marginalized communities out of poverty.
Commitment to Efficiency and Transparency
The President emphasized that the government would break away from the tradition of delayed timelines and inflated budgets. All projects, he assured, will be delivered within scheduled deadlines and budget allocations to ensure that benefits reach the people promptly.
The Vadduvakal Bridge, spanning the Nandikadal Lagoon along the Paranthan–Karachchi–Mullaitivu road, is a vital route accommodating over 3,000 vehicles daily. Long neglected and deemed unsafe, the bridge is now set for a complete reconstruction into a modern two-lane structure, at a cost of Rs. 1.4 billion. The project, financed by public funds, is scheduled for completion by September 2, 2027.
Delivering More with Less
Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation Bimal Rathnayake highlighted the government’s transparency and fiscal discipline. He noted that although the bridge was originally estimated at Rs. 1.8 billion, it will now be completed for Rs. 1.4 billion. The Rs. 400 million saved will be redirected towards highway development across the Vanni District.
“Rs. 12.5 billion has already been allocated this year for bridges and highways in the North, and this figure will grow further next year,” the Minister said, stressing that the government is equally committed to peace, progress, and national unity through visible action rather than rhetoric.
A Symbol of Unity and Progress
The event also saw the participation of Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources Ramalingam Chandrasekar, Deputy Minister of Cooperative Development Upali Samarasingha, Governor of the Northern Province Nagalingam Vethanayahan, Secretary to the Ministry of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation Senior Professor Kapila C.K. Perera, along with senior officials of the Road Development Authority.
Their presence highlighted the project’s national significance, not just as a bridge, but as a symbol of rebuilding, reconciliation, and equitable development in the post-conflict North.
Building the Future
The President’s message was clear: infrastructure is not merely concrete and steel, but a pathway to opportunity, dignity, and prosperity for communities across Sri Lanka. With a firm focus on structured planning, fiscal responsibility, and timely delivery, the Vadduvakal Bridge project reflects the government’s vision of rebuilding the nation with discipline, inclusivity, and foresight.
As construction begins, the bridge stands as a testament to President Dissanayake’s resolve to unite Sri Lanka through development—ensuring that no region, and no community, is left behind.
