Deputy minister says 2027 budget unlikely to fund proposed Batticaloa bridges
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Transport and Highways Deputy Minister Dr. Prasanna Gunasena informed Parliament on 21 October 2026 that proposals have been submitted to construct several bridges across Batticaloa District.
Responding to ITAK MP Gnanamuththu Srineshan, Gunasena stated that 2027 Budget allocations are unlikely because road development projects have already been incorporated into the Public Investment Programme.
The proposed sites include Naripul Thottam, Kinnaiyadi, Sandiveli, Mandur, Ambilanthurai, and Kanchirankuda. The Road Development Authority oversees Mandur–Kurumanveli, Ambilanthurai–Kurukkalmadam, and Kanchirankuda, while the remaining bridges fall under the Pradeshiya Sabha.
Gunasena explained that construction remains stalled due to insufficient funding. He added that no feasibility studies or borehole testing have been conducted for the proposed Naripul Thottam bridge.
