Megapolis will generate employment: Poll

Monday, 19 September 2016 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The latest nationwide survey conducted by research firm TNS Lanka, for business magazine LMD, reveals that the majority of citizens feel that the Megapolis project is likely to generate new employment opportunities.

The magazine says that, according to the poll results, a majority of 61% state that the mega project will create jobs, on the grounds that there will be new business opportunities as a result of it. Meanwhile 24% disagree, with the rest sitting on the fence.

“Those who are in this camp also assert that the project is likely to develop sectors such as motorways, hospitals and transportation,” LMD reports.

However, as to whether or not the proposed Megapolis is a dire need, a slim majority (47%) agree, while 43% oppose and a further 10% are unsure.

Of the sample survey population, more than half (54%) believe that the project will attract foreign investors, beautify the country and facilitate tourism. However, a quarter disagree with this view and around a fifth of those spoken to are unsure. But where borrowing for the project is concerned, 40% are in the naysayers’ camp or are unsure.

The people say that an integrated transport system with real-time traffic information and management; proper infrastructure, including railways, highways, a smart power grid and proper drainage system; parking facilities; environmental protection; and job creation and enhanced trade are must-haves in the Western Province Megapolis.

The September edition of the pioneering magazine has been released to leading supermarkets and bookstores in Colombo and the outstations.

Its Cover Story features exclusive insights into the economic expectations of the Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Dr. Indrajit Coomaraswamy (for the full story, log onto www.LMD.lk).