The Government of Japan has agreed to provide a grant of about Rs. 4.56 billion to upgrade a pumping station in the Kelani River Basin and reduce flood risk in the Wattala and Peliyagoda areas.
The project is expected to lower flood risk in the Mudun Ela sub-basin, which covers both areas, according to the Cabinet decision.
The Cabinet of Ministers approved a proposal by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, in his capacity as Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, to obtain the grant.
Residents of low-lying parts of the Colombo suburbs have often faced flooding during heavy rain, so drainage upgrades matter for homes and businesses there.
Cabinet also authorised the signing of an Exchange of Notes with the Japanese Government and a grant agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to carry out the project.
