|
|
|
  |
| Sunday, 12 December 2004 |
 |
|
 |
Features |  |
| News Business Features Editorial
|
See you at the Beira by Chamitha Kuruppu
Not so long ago, it was a dross filled, polluted body of water, giving Colombo a bad name and smell. But tody it has become the masterpiece of creativity and innovative technology with a glass domed structure that is the cynosure of all eyes. The Beira lake ... all primped and spruced up with a state-of-the art, designer art gallery, an artfully paved promenade and perhaps the biggest attraction, the cable bridge, the first ever to be built in Sri Lanka. The newest 'in' place to be seen 'out', the Beira lake restoration project was undertaken by the Urban Development Authority (UDA) along with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority at a cost of Rs. 90 million. Designed by the Chief Engineer Designs of the State Engineering Corporation, Rohana de Silva, the entire work of this unique art gallery and the bridge was fully completed in three months. And the new look 'Beira' had its official opening on Wednesday, December 8. Although, the original plan was to build a restaurant in the central island the decision had to be shelved due to environmental concerns and an art gallery was constructed instead. The initial plan to erect a suspension bridge similar to the one at (Peradeniya Botanical Gardens) was later changed, following several studies, pointed out veteran designer Rohana De Silva. The art gallery and the bridge are is the first of their kind in Sri Lanka and more development plans will come under this project in the near future, a spokesman for the UDA said. The roof of the dome-shaped art gallery that stands on eight legs is built with polycarbonate. Material for the dome was imported from Israel at a cost of Rs. 4 million and the construction work of the art gallery was completed in five days by FRP Services and Company Lanka Limited. Also in the pipe line is a special commercial ferry service and a number of food outlets. Once polluted and smelly, the Beira Lake has now become a breath-taking scene. The authorities assure that a committee comprising members of the UDA and the Ports Authority will look into the maintenance of the entire project especially to ensure no pollution takes place. However, it is up to the public to be a part of this newest and exciting experience in town without causing any pollution and damage. |
|
| News | Business | Features
| Editorial | Security
| Produced by Lake House |
