This was stated by him when he met Minister of Economic Development, Basil Rajapaksa recently at the Ministry of Economic Development. The progress of Bridges construction Programme implemented in Sri Lanka by the French Government and future construction programmes, were discussed between the Minister and the Chairman of Unibridge Agency .
Financial aid amounting to Euros 22 Million was granted by the French Government for the purpose of widening and reconstructing 46 bridges in dilapidated condition in Sri Lanka and bridges to be reconstructed were selected on priority basis covering various regions in the Island.
Minister Bail Rajapaksa explained that the Programme for the construction of 1000 bridges with minimum facilities is also being presently implemented in a successful manner. The Minister further said that already the people are enjoying the benefits of Sri Lanka's rapid development. Minister added that with the enhancement of living standard, the number of vehicles used by them also has gone up , which comparatively necessitated widening of the road network.
Accordingly, he said it was necessary to widen narrow bridges and reconstruct dilapidated bridges to suit improved road network.
French Ambassador M. Jean Paul Monchau, Unibridge Marketing Director Rechard Gledhill and Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Economic Development Priyantha Mayadunna were present on the occasion.(KH)