On the Occasion of the Handover Ceremony of New Bridge in Buttala, Monaragala

Venerable Nandaratana Thero,
Members of Dimuthu Community Development Society,
Divisional Secretary of Buttala,
Chairman and members of Pradeshiya Sabha,
Engineer Irrigation Department,
Police Officer in Charge,
Grama Sevaka Officers
 
Ayubowan.
It is my great pleasure to say a few words on this auspices opening ceremony of the new bridge, which was completed with the assistance of the GGP grant by Japan.
 
You might recall the time of hardship when you used to cross the river on foot. This bridge, built through the assistance to Dimuthu Community Development Society, will put those days in the past, and we are delighted to see that all the neighboring community members in this area can now safely cross the river with the newly built bridge. We believe that this will ease your difficulties.
 
We signed the contract of the project in February this year. It is remarkable that the construction of the bridge was completed in such a short period in spite of challenges the community must have faced because of the Covid-19 pandemic situation. This bridge will provide around 2,500 villagers a safe and easier access which enables a half of length to main towns compared with current situation. It certainly improves all the community members’ access to major livelihood facilities and institutions such as markets, schools and hospitals especially during upcoming rainy season.
 
Uplifting living standard, especially of the people in remote regions, is one of the focus areas which Japan emphasizes in its development assistance in Sri Lanka and we’re determined to continue to make progress in this area.
 
I highly commend the dedicated works of the members of Dimuth Community Development Society, officers and members from Pradeshiya Sabha, government officers, and all the community members who contributed to this project, and extend my heartfelt appreciation for completing the project successfully.
 
I wish this bridge will remain in good service for many years to come with careful and continuous maintenance by all the member of the community. I also wish that this bridge will further promote the cordial friendship between Japan and Sri Lanka. Thank you very much for your kind attention. Stutiyi.