Financial Chronicle – India will construct 15 Bailey Bridges as part of a $450 million cyclone recovery package aimed at reconstructing Sri Lanka’s damaged infrastructure, according to the Indian High Commission in Colombo.
A 100-foot Bailey Bridge was inaugurated on January 10 along the B-492 Highway on the Kandy–Ragala Road. The ceremony was attended by the High Commissioner of India, Santosh Jha, and the Deputy Minister of Transport and Highways, Prasanna Gunasena. This bridge was installed by the 19 Engineer Regiment of the Indian Army and its construction began within three weeks of the announcement of the aid package.
“The newly commissioned Bailey Bridge has significantly improved access and mobility for communities in this affected area, particularly in the difficult hilly terrain,” stated the Indian High Commission.
The reconstruction efforts are being executed in collaboration with the Sri Lankan Army and the Road Development Authority. India will also install another Bailey Bridge along the Kandy Ragala road.
“In the next phase, over 15 additional Bailey Bridges will be constructed in the coming weeks, ensuring comprehensive restoration of connectivity across all affected areas,” the statement added. “Projects in other areas will also be launched in the coming days.”
India is also expected to rebuild damaged railway tracks and provide housing and other necessary resources for Sri Lanka.
In related developments, India has committed to rebuilding Sri Lanka’s cyclone-hit bridges with an investment of $30 million and has provided Sri Lanka with cyclone aid equivalent to $350 million in Indian rupees.
India has airlifted 228 tonnes of Bailey Bridge components to facilitate the construction of four Bailey Bridges.
(Colombo/Jan11/2026)
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