Cabinet approval has been granted to construct a new bridge across the Mahaweli River between Peradeniya and Sarasavi Uyana on the Matale railway line, Cabinet Spokesman Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said.
He stated this during the media briefing held at the Department of Government Information to announce Cabinet decisions. The relevant Cabinet paper was presented by the Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development.
Key Points
- Approval granted to construct a new railway bridge across the Mahaweli River between Peradeniya and Sarasavi Uyana.
- Financial assistance for the project will be obtained through an Indian credit line.
- A feasibility study is already underway for a suburban rail network surrounding Kandy.
Indian credit line and new plans
Funding for the project will be provided under an Indian credit line allocated for the restoration and development of railway infrastructure damaged by Cyclone Ditwah. The primary objective is to integrate the Matale railway line with the national railway network.
In addition, a feasibility study is currently underway to develop a comprehensive suburban rail network covering the Kandy metropolitan area. Accordingly, plans are reportedly in place to double-track the line from Kadugannawa via Peradeniya to Gampola, as well as the Matale line from Peradeniya to Katugastota.
