In the past, rulers developed roads primarily for their own needs and political gain. However, it is the current government that understands the fundamental needs of the people and is undertaking the development of roads, bridges, and jetties accordingly. The Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan, stated that many initiatives which had once seemed like unattainable dreams during his tenure as the Jaffna District Secretary are now becoming a reality during this period.
Under the “Path to Revival” project, implemented using public tax funds with the objective of improving road infrastructure in the Northern Province, the commencement ceremony for the improvement and reconstruction of the Aavarangal–Thondaimanaru Road was held this morning – on Wednesday, 11 February 2026, at the Achchuveli Central Bus Stand.
The Governor made these remarks while addressing the gathering at the event, which was attended by the Hon. Minister of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, Bimal Rathnayake.
The road will be fully rehabilitated over a length of 6.03 kilometers at an estimated cost of approximately 680 million rupees, excluding taxes. The construction work, which will be carried out on an accelerated basis, is scheduled for completion and handover to the public on 12.05.2027.
In his speech, the Governor further stated:
Today is a very joyous day for the people of this area. Although several attempts had been made to renovate the Aavarangal–Thondaimanaru Road, it had remained unachievable for a long time. That dream is now being realized under the present government.
Hon. Minister Bimal Rathnayake has shown special concern for the people of the North. Even during his time as an opposition Member of Parliament, he was aware of the hardships faced by our people. During my tenure as Jaffna District Secretary, he allocated funds to the people of Jaffna from his decentralized budget as a Member of Parliament. Such has been his level of concern for our people. Therefore, now that he serves as the Minister of Highways and Urban Development, he is well positioned to effectively advance the development of our province. We must make full use of this opportunity, he said.
At the beginning of the event, religious observances were conducted. Subsequently, the Minister and the Governor unveiled the name board for the road rehabilitation project and officially commenced the construction work.
Among those who attended the event were Jaffna District Members of Parliament Hon. J. Rajeevan and Hon. S. Sribhavanandarajah, the Hon. Chairman of the Valikamam East Pradeshiya Sabha T. Nirosh, Jaffna District Secretary M. Piiratheepan, Provincial Director of the Road Development Authority Croos, members of the Pradeshiya Sabha, and a large number of members of the public.
