Authorities have taken steps to expedite the restoration of the historic Halaba Bridge, which connects the Hali Ela and Uva Paranagama areas and is currently in a structurally unsafe condition.
Plantations and Community Infrastructure Minister Samantha Vidyarathna recently conducted a special inspection of the site (24) to coordinate necessary arrangements for its rehabilitation.
The bridge, which is over 100 years old, is a recognised archaeological monument constructed with iron supports and wooden planks. Due to a lack of maintenance over the years, several planks have deteriorated and the structure has weakened. However, local residents continue to use the bridge despite safety risks.
Uva Provincial authorities have allocated Rs. 5 million through the Provincial Ministry of Tourism for immediate conservation work. Additional funding is expected to be provided under disaster rehabilitation plans following Cyclone “Ditwah,” which caused further damage across affected areas.
Several officials, including Uva Governor Kapila Jayasekara, Minister Samantha Vidyarathna, Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Dr Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, and local government representatives, participated in the inspection. (Newswire)