News Today: Central Expressway construction from Kadawatha to Mirigama begins again with Rs. 229B investment

Construction work on the long-delayed Central Expressway from Kadawatha to Mirigama officially resumed today under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. This long-awaited development marks a significant step forward in Sri Lanka’s infrastructure growth, promising to enhance connectivity and reduce travel time for commuters and businesses alike.

The first phase, stretching 37 kilometers, is being restarted at a massive investment of Rs. 229 billion, funded through a concessional loan jointly supported by the General Treasury and the Exim Bank of China. The project is scheduled for completion by September 2028, bringing long-term economic and transportation benefits to the region.

While the second section of the expressway, from Mirigama to Kurunegala, has already been successfully completed, the progress of the first phase was stalled for several years due to funding and logistical challenges. With today’s relaunch, the government aims to accelerate momentum in one of the country’s most ambitious highway projects.

A striking feature of this segment is the 15 kilometers of elevated construction on towers, a complex engineering undertaking that will modernize road travel in Sri Lanka. Additionally, the project will introduce three vital interchanges located in Gampaha, Veyangoda, and Mirigama, ensuring smooth connectivity for surrounding towns and districts.

The official ceremony was attended by Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation Bimal Ratnayake along with senior officials and engineers. This milestone signals the government’s commitment to delivering long-delayed infrastructure and unlocking new opportunities for trade, tourism, and regional development.