Megapolis project:

US$13 b investments needed for transport

by Chandani Jayatilleke

The Western Region Megapolis Project envisages investments of almost US $ 13 billion to implement the projects under its transport development sector alone.

Half of it goes to build new expressways, according to the megapolis master plan.

Western Region Megapolis Planning Project (WRMPP) recently unveiled the strategic interventions and the projects to be implemented under this scheme to create the island’s first megapolis, covering Colombo, Gampaha and the Kalutara districts.

The estimated US $ 44 billion city and urban development project aims to make the country’s western region the most livable and vibrant economic and residential metropolis in South Asia.

Twenty-nine projects in the transport development sector have been identified for investments. This includes a one billion dollar bonded highway for the logistics corridor, $ 1.9 billion new rapid transit system in the Central Business District (CBD) and suburbs, $ 1.4 billion railway electrification and modernisation project and a $ 1.4 billion project for multi modal transport hubs and centres.

One of the first issues to be addressed through the WRMPP would be transport and traffic issues.

“Introducing modern and convenient rail and bus services in the region is the first issue the expert team has recommended as a priority. We have interacted with the people through various social media and transport is the pressing issue they have pointed out; 70% of the people wanted to sort out the transport problem immediately. We all understand that transport is the first issue to be addressed,” WRMPP Chairman Ajita de Costa said.

The aim is to introduce modern technology and improve public transport, which is a dreadful experience for travellers today.

When proper infrastructure is in place and cities are integrated, people can travel freely and obtain all facilities. Entrepreneurs and industrialists will have specific areas to do business and obtain essential services. The government’s aim is to encourage more investors to the city and bring in foreign direct investments.

Air pollution is also a key problem in the city.

The team has proposed to introduce more electric vehicles and the use of alternative energy methods for houses, industries and vehicles.

The other major areas for investments include township development, housing development, power and energy, water supply, solid waste management, archaeology and tourism and cultural, educational, religious and skills development projects.