The project, which covers the Northern, Eastern, North-Central and Uva provinces, had faced delays and temporary suspension due to the economic crisis. However, following the establishment of the current government, Japan agreed to re-finance the programme, enabling work to restart on a large scale.
According to the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government, a total of 75 stalled sub-projects will now be completed under the renewed programme.
Over Rs.18 billion has been allocated for this purpose, and contractors who were previously engaged in the projects have been instructed to return to work and complete the assignments without further delay.
Officials noted that the resumption of RIDEP would help strengthen rural infrastructure and support economic recovery in less developed regions of the country.
