Rural Roads and Other Infrastructure State Minister Nimal Lanza yesterday said the approval to operate the ferry across the Kurunjankerni Lagoon in Kinniya has been granted by the Kinniya Urban Council run by the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress.
He said that he does not approve of the action taken by the Opposition Leader in accusing the government regarding the unfortunate incident that took place yesterday morning that claimed six lives.
He said that the government expresses its regret regarding the loss of lives in this unfortunate incident and that a formal investigation will be carried out. He also said that the Road Development Authority does not have any connection with allowing the relevant raft to operate.
It had not been possible to construct a bridge across this lagoon for a very long time, and no action at all was taken during the tenure of the government of good governance to do so. Lanza said that their government commenced building a bridge as a solution for the people who are suffering and its construction will be expedited.
As a result of the Urban Council granting permission to use this raft in an unprotected manner, this tragedy took place. The State Minister said further that arrangements will be made in the near future to plan a proper passenger transport operation in compliance with proper standards, by the Road Development Authority, across the lagoon.
by Daily News Sri Lanka
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