Wednesday Jul 01, 2026
Wednesday Jul 01, 2026
Thursday, 28 May 2026 06:08 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is scheduled to inaugurate construction work on Phase II of Section 3 of the Central Expressway tomorrow (29) at the Galagedara Public Grounds, marking the start of a key segment of the long-delayed highway project.
The latest phase covers the Rambukkana-Galagedara stretch of the expressway and forms part of the broader Central Expressway network aimed at improving connectivity between Colombo and the Central Province.
The project received Cabinet approval on 11 May, with the Government clearing over Rs. 112 billion worth of construction contracts for the implementation of the phase.
Approval was granted for seven construction packages covering the 18.65-kilometre section from km 13+800 to km 32+450 under the supervision of the Transport, Highways and Urban Development Ministry.
The Government has decided to fully finance the project using domestic funding, with implementation to be carried out through competitive bidding among qualified local contractors.
The commencement of construction comes after years of delays and restructuring surrounding different phases of the expressway project, which has been viewed as a critical component of Sri Lanka’s long-term transport and infrastructure development strategy.
The Central Expressway is expected to improve connectivity between Colombo and the Central Province, reduce travel times, and support trade, tourism, and regional economic activity once completed.
