Nine Arches Bridge lighting project postponed indefinitely due to land dispute

The Central Cultural Fund (CCF) announced that the inauguration of the lighting project for the Demodara Nine Arches Bridge—a major attraction for both local and foreign tourists—has been postponed indefinitely.

The fund’s Director General, Dr. Nilankure, stated that the delay is due to a problem obtaining electricity lines across private land for the project.

He explained that the issue arose because the landowners objected to running the necessary power lines through their private property to connect the newly installed transformer, which is intended to light up the bridge and its surroundings.

Although alternative methods to lay the power lines are currently being planned, Dr. Nilankure noted that this is a rather complex undertaking. While the project was scheduled for completion this month, the unresolved dispute has necessitated its indefinite postponement.

The project was initiated with the goal of creating a tourism zone around the Nine Arches Bridge.

The CCF plans to launch this tourism zone as a joint venture, in partnership with the Railway Department.