A long-stalled national infrastructure project shows renewed momentum as construction progress accelerates on a critical stretch of the Central Expressway, offering cautious optimism to motorists and commuters alike.
Nearly 40 per cent of the Kadawatha–Mirigama section of the Central Expressway has now been completed, according to Transport, Highways and Urban Development Minister Bimal Ratnayake, marking a significant milestone in one of Sri Lanka’s most delayed highway projects.
The Minister stressed the importance of managing traffic congestion during the construction phase, particularly along the Colombo–Kandy road and at expressway entry and exit points. He instructed officials to address previously identified bottlenecks to minimise inconvenience to motorists and nearby communities as work continues.
These observations were made during an inspection of ongoing construction on the Kadawatha–Mirigama stretch, which represents the first phase of the Central Expressway project. The section is viewed as a crucial link in improving connectivity between the Western Province and the central regions of the country.
Although agreements for the project were signed as far back as 2015, actual construction only commenced in 2020. Progress was later brought to a complete halt due to the severe economic crisis triggered by failed economic policies, officials explained.
Following the formation of the new government, fresh discussions were held between the Ministry of Transport and the Chinese government. These talks resulted in the approval of a loan facility to complete the remaining work. Construction activities officially resumed on September 17, 2025, reviving hopes that the long-delayed Central Expressway will finally move toward completion.
