Courtesy The Daily Mirror

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has directed the Minister-in-Charge to accelerate the construction works of the Central Expressway project, the President’s Media Division said. 

It said construction of the section from Colombo to Kurunegala has been disrupted due to issues relating to the compensation payment process.

The President instructed Minister Johnston Fernando to complete the construction of the expressway while providing a quick solution to the prevailing problems. 

President Rajapaksa gave these directives during a public gathering held in Mawathagama Public Fair premises, Kurunegala, during his tour of the district for the second day yesterday in support of the candidates representing Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP).

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, who accompanied the President to a public meeting organized by candidate Kamal Perera, stated that strong and stable parliament is needed to implement the promises in Vistas of Prosperity and Splendour” policy statement. 

President Rajapaksa, in response to a request by the All Island Inter District School Children Transportation Association, agreed to grant another six-month moratorium on the leasing rentals of all school vans.

The President also instructed the Army Commander to fulfil the request made by the students of Nidahasgama Vidyadeepa and Devapola Kumara Schools to renovate their school playgrounds.

Minister Johnston Fernando told the President that he will take necessary measures to build an Indoor Badminton Court in Mawathagama National School.

President engaged in cordial discussions with the people who gathered on both sides of the road leading to Dodangaslanda Rideegama Sathi Pola grounds.

A group of employees who had gathered in front of the Dodangaslanda Hospital told the President that patients had to travel to Kurunegala due to shortcomings that existed in the hospital.

The President instructed the relevant officials to look into the matter and find a speedy solution to it. 

Both President and the Prime Minister participated in the public rally at Dodangaslanda Weekly fair premises organized by the SLPP candidate R.D. Wimaladasa.

President Rajapaksa was informed of several issues faced by the residents of the area including, the price drop in minor export crops, drug menace and the need to improve the condition of the road network in the area.

The President and the Prime Minister also attended the public meeting in Pradheshiya Saba Ground, Alawwa organized by the candidate Sumith Rajapaksa. Several artistes as well as the SLPP Chairman Prof. G.L. Peiris were present at the location.