Ella Nine-Arch Bridge, Demodara railway loop will be protected under new project

A MoU with the Transport and Highways Ministry, Urban Development Authority, and the Central Cultural Fund regarding the tourism management project in the area around Ella Nine-Arch Bridge was signed with participation of Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena at his office on Monday (29). For the first time in Sri Lanka, an ambulance service is to be commenced adjoining a national heritage site. As the second step of this project, it has been proposed to start a tourism management project in connection with Demodara railway station.

The Prime Minister stated that he wish to express his appreciation for developing tourism hubs through such projects and working to increase tourist attraction. Pointing out that the 9-arch bridge in Ella was an engineering marvel in that era, the Prime Minister emphasised that while carrying out these projects, the existence and stability of the natural environment should be protected and the heritage of the future generations should also be taken into consideration.

Transport, Highways and Mass Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardena stated that Ella Odyssey, Dunhinda Odyssey and Calypso trains are important steps in promoting tourism. He also said that the proposal to modernise and develop the railway service, which is very important in connection with these projects, has already been submitted to the President as the Transport Minister.

Director General of the Central Cultural Fund Gamini Ranasinghe and General Manager of Sri Lanka Railway Department, S. S. Mudalige signed this agreement.

Buddha Sasana Minister Vidura Wickramanayake, MP Yadamini Gunawardena, Prime Minister’s Secretary Anura Dissanayake, Transport Ministry Secretary Ranjith Rubasinghe, Buddha Sasana Ministry Secretary H. M. P. B. Herath and officials from the Ministries participated.

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