New bridge to connect Sri Lanka capital

RSSSri Lanka plans to construct a new bridge that will improve transport connections to capital Colombo. The six lane bridge will span the Kelani River. It will be built parallel to the existing Kelani Bridge (Japan Friendship Bridge) and help cut congestion on this important travel route. The project is expected to cost US$335.6 million. The bridge will feature an elevated approach road and the project also includes the construction of interchanges linking the Colombo-Katunayake Expressway (CKE), Baseline Road and Colombo Port. Construction will start in January 2017. The project is intended to reduce congestion in the areas around Kelani and Peliyagoda. It will also help to improve transport and boost the economy. The 2416 Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is providing a loan worth $287.5 million for the project. This will help fund the feasibility studies as well as the construction work.