Rs. 5 Billion Allocated To Restart Lower Malwathu Oya Multi-Sector Development Project

COLOMBO (News 1st): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says, the development of the country's irrigation system can help build a stronger economy for rural communities and enable them to make a direct contribution to the national economy.

The President made these remarks during a discussion held at the Presidential Secretariat to review the progress of the Lower Malwathu Oya Multi-Sector Development Project and address issues hindering its continued implementation.

The discussion was attended by officials and representatives of all relevant institutions.

President Dissanayake had also recently participated in an observation tour of the project site, where several issues affecting the implementation of the project were identified.

The President said further discussions had been held on those issues, with a number of positive solutions identified to facilitate the project's future activities.

Meanwhile, Rs. 5 billion has been allocated in the 2026 Budget to restart the Lower Malwathu Oya Multi-Sector Development Project, which was initiated approximately 10 years ago but subsequently stalled due to a lack of funds.

The President emphasized the importance of expediting the project and ensuring that its benefits reach rural communities.