Environment Minister Mahinda Amaraweera has stated that development projects initiated by the Government will not be halted due to the COVID-19 epidemic or other reasons.
The Minister said that it was the responsibility of the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau (GSMB) to provide the necessary infrastructure facilities to supply sand, granite and soil without any shortage and delay, especially during the construction of the Central Expressway as well as other development projects initiated by the Government.
Several companies supplying sand, granite and soil for the construction of the Central Expressway had discussions with the Minister recently (09) the difficulties that they face in supplying them continuously. The discussion was held at the Ministry of Environment.
The Minister said the President, the Prime Minister and all Ministers are working normally without blaming this pandemic.
“However, the Government will not allow any development activities in the country to be hampered due to the pandemic,” the Minister said.
“The Government has initiated 13 major development projects. We estimate that these projects will require large quantities of gravel, sand, and soil.
We have enough granite but there is some problem in procuring sand. Therefore, the use of sea sand as an alternative measure should also be explored, ” the Minister advised the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau.
Several officials of GSMB and representatives from supply companies also participated.
