Urbanization of villages underway

It is envisaged in the Mahinda Chintana to enhance the village population, who form the majority in the country, with the facilities being enjoyed by the urbanite population. With this objective the government has launched a programme entitled “Pura Neguma” to urbanize the villages.

Under the programme108 selected villages will be developed as urban areas during this year. The villages are to be selected from the Western, North Central, Uva, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, Central and North Western provinces.

The treasury has allocated a sum of Rs. 534 million for the project for the “Pura Neguma” project. Under the programme, local government institutions which has not received credit for development of infrastructure facilities hitherto will be identified and given assistance.

Each selected local government institution will be allocated with funds subjected to a maximum of Rs. 50 million.

Attention will be focused on establishing water supply, sanitation, maternity clinics, health centers, libraries and play ground facilities under the proposed programme. (niz)