Monaragala: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake underscored the importance of preventing delays in district-level development projects, stressing that state officials must ensure these projects are completed within their designated timeframes. Addressing the Monaragala District Special Coordinating Committee meeting at the Monaragala District Secretariat, the President highlighted the necessity of adhering to target plans from initiation to completion of development projects.
According to News.LK, the President voiced concerns over the extended durations of previously launched projects, which have led to increased costs and diminished returns on investment. He insisted that all development projects should be finalized by their scheduled completion dates from this year forward. The meeting reviewed ongoing and future development projects in the district, emphasizing the allocation of funds for projects that are crucial to the public.
The President assured that funds would be available for essential development projects, particularly those costing less than Rs. 100 million, within the current year. He emphasized that rural development projects must be expedited to ensure treasury funds effectively benefit local communities. A significant focus was placed on resolving land-related issues for farmers affected by boundary demarcations of the Kotiyagala-Kebilitta reserve, with instructions to establish a structured mechanism for this purpose.
The meeting also addressed vacancies in state institutions within the district. The President announced the approval for recruiting 62,000 new public service employees this year, with potential increases up to 100,000 based on requirements. He emphasized the government’s commitment to modernizing public service and strengthening local government institutions, as outlined in this year’s budget.
Highlighting the issue of incomplete irrigation projects, the President stressed the need for a review of large-scale irrigation initiatives and other major constructions by state institutions. He urged officials to evaluate the necessity of long-delayed projects and propose alternatives if necessary. Additionally, the President mentioned the increased contract limits for community-based organisations to expedite rural development.
Discussions at the meeting covered the establishment of a Pradeshiya Sabha for the Sevanagala Divisional Secretariat Division and the allocation of land to farmers affected by the Siyambalanduwa solar power project. Progress on lease deeds for the Buttala Industrial Zone, road and bridge development, and the construction of a Thalassemia treatment unit were also reviewed.
The event was attended by prominent figures such as Uva Province Governor Kapila Jayasekara, Deputy Minister R.M. Jayawardena, and several Members of Parliament, alongside Monaragala District Secretary M.M. Wijenayake and other state officials.