More funds to develop Matara-19.07.2009-ITN News Sri Lanka

The support of public representatives and officials is needed for development centering on the village.
Senior Presidential Advisor and Parliamentarian Basil Rajapaksa said two months had passed since the total liberation of the country from terrorism. The Lions flag is fluttering in all 25 Districts due to this significant achievement by the war heroes. Electricity is being supplied to the entire country including Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu Districts. He pointed out that the Presidents concept is to improve all villages and thereby develop the country.

Mr. Rajapaksa chaired a special meeting to review progress of development in the Matara District. It was held at the District Secretariat yesterday. It was agreed to grant 325 million rupees at the rate of 500,000 rupees to each of the 650 Grama Niladhari Divisions within the District under the Gama Neguma. In addition to setting apart 100 million rupees for Provincial road development, 70 million rupees will be allocated to complete the provision of electricity this year. 45 million rupees was set apart for development schemes of the Southern Development Authority. It was agreed at this meeting to extend the grants needed to develop 19 dilapidated bridges. Ministers and Government officials adverted attention on the removal of obstacles in the re-cultivation of fallow paddy lands in the District. Ministers Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena, Dulles Alahapperuma and Chandrasiri Gajadeera, Governor Kumari Balasuriya, Chief Minister Shan Wijayalal De Silva and many senior Government officials and heads of establishments attended this meeting.