The new flyover is the third structure built under a wider plan to reduce traffic congestion in and around the Colombo city limits.
It allows one-way traffic from Galle Face towards Kompannavidiya through Chittampalam A. Gardiner Mawatha. The structure measures about 340 metres in length and 11 metres in width.
As a result, traffic movement in this busy corridor is expected to improve.
Project Cost and Implementation
The Government completed the project at a total cost of Rs. 3.2 billion.
The flyover forms part of the Sustainable Road Development Programme of the Ministry of Transport, Highways, and Urban Development. Meanwhile, the Road Development Authority handled project implementation.
Delays Linked to Economic Challenges
Speaking at the event, Minister Rathnayake said the area is one of Colombo’s busiest commercial zones. Several government offices and hotels operate nearby. Because of this, traffic congestion has remained a long-standing issue.
He noted that authorities approved plans to build three flyovers in the area several years ago. Two of those structures were completed earlier.
However, the Minister said construction of the Baladaksha Mawatha Flyover was due for completion in 2022. Instead, the project faced delays due to the economic crisis and related issues.
As a result, project costs increased by around Rs. 1 billion, raising the total from an initial estimate of Rs. 2.7 billion.
Benefits for Road Users
Meanwhile, the Minister said officials resolved issues linked to police residential quarters following field inspections with senior police officers. This step helped speed up construction work.
He added that the completed flyover will reduce travel time and ease congestion for daily commuters. In addition, he thanked the Police Department and the Road Development Authority for their cooperation in completing the project.
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Last modified: January 20, 2026
