Major development work on Chandrika Kumaratunga Mawatha, linking Ambatale to Malabe, and the parallel Heen Ela canal project began on Thursday (05).
Deputy Minister of Urban Development Eranga Gunasekara stated that Rs. 730 million has been earmarked for these works. From the total funds, Rs. 275 million is designated for carpeting and upgrading the road, and Rs. 455 million is dedicated to conserving the canal.
Flood Damage and Authority Issues
Situated on the border of the Kolonnawa and Kaduwela local government areas in the Colombo District, the route has experienced heavy damage over time from regular floods and standing water. Deputy Minister Gunasekara explained that cracks and sinking have caused major transport disruptions.
On top of that, strong currents in Heen Ela triggered severe erosion across a 58-metre stretch, battering both canal banks and the road itself. The route had been neglected for an extended period because nobody was certain which authority held legal responsibility for its upkeep.
Following action by the Kolonnawa and Kaduwela Coordination Committees, the road is now placed under the Road Development Authority (RDA). The plan also involves building reinforced Gabion Walls to stop future erosion.
