A major operation was launched on Monday (15 Dec) at the Peradeniya Yaka Bridge to remove a large obstruction in the Mahaweli River that had posed a challenge to engineers for over ten days.

According to Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development Bimal Rathnayake, the issue arose after a deep cavity in the riverbed became surrounded by a mass of mud, soil, and vegetation, forming an island‑like block.

He said attempts by Navy divers to clear the section, located about ten feet deep, proved unsuccessful due to its density.

On December 13, officials from the Land Development Corporation (LDC) inspected the site and took responsibility for the task. With assistance from the Army, a Low Bed Mover was used to transport heavy equipment from Colombo to Peradeniya.

Accommodation and logistical support were arranged for the LDC officials and engineers, while local representatives coordinated meals and refreshments. The operation was managed continuously by private staff members.

Minister Rathnayake said that the heavy machinery was lowered into the Mahaweli River, and work commenced yesterday (15 Dec). 

He further said that authorities expect the obstruction to be cleared within the day, after which engineers will decide on further measures regarding the cavity and the bridge’s safety.

Minister Rathnayake added that the rapid deployment of equipment and expertise marks a decisive step toward resolving the long‑standing issue at the Yaka Bridge. (Newswire)

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The construction of a new residential building in Peradeniya for the treatment and rehabilitation of youth addicted to drugs has received a Cabinet nod. 

According to the government, the Narcotic Control National Board implements treatment and rehabilitation services for individuals addicted to drugs under residential and non-residential models. 

Under this initiative, a treatment centre is being maintained in Handessa, Peradeniya, for children and youth below 21 years facing issues due to the use of drugs.

It has been recognized that treatment services and sufficient space are essential to treat individuals in that age category, considering their psycho-social conduct due to drug use. 

Since there is only residential capacity for 35 individuals in the relevant centre, a pending list has to be maintained for admissions. 

As such, the Cabinet approved a proposal by the Minister of Public Security to construct a new residential building at the Peradeniya treatment centre, for Rs. 110 million from the provisions allocated under the Clean Sri Lanka programme.

The new building is to be constructed so that treatment opportunities for children and youth addicted to drugs can be expanded and accelerated. (Newswire)

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