The estimated cost for phase 1 of the Central Expressway (Kadawata – Meerigama stretch) has more than doubled since the project agreement was first signed in 2015, according to a deputy minister.
The original agreement for the project was signed in 2015, followed by a second agreement in 2016, but successive governments have failed to complete the project in the last ten years.
Deputy Minister of Transport Dr. Prasanna Gunasena revealed that the cost has risen from Rs. 158 billion to Rs. 350 billion, citing factors such as compensation claims from the construction firm and the depreciation of the local currency.
The 36-kilometre stretch of phase 1 is being funded through a loan from EXIM Bank of China.
Dr. Gunasena also noted that some construction undertaken early in the project had collapsed when work was stalled, prompting the government to allocate Rs. 7 billion for restoration.
The government has now prioritized completing the Central Expressway, with work progressing on the Pothuhera-Rambukkana stretch and land acquisition completed for the next stage up to Galagedara in Kandy.
The Central Expressway is divided into four components, including the Kurunegala-Dambulla stretch, and the government has emphasized completing it before starting any new expressway projects.
If construction of phase 1 resumes now, it will take about three more years to complete, and further delays will only increase costs.
