The construction work on the new Mannar Bridge and the causeway connecting the Mannar Island with the mainland, are now nearing completion, with funds from the Japanese Government.

The new bridge, spanning 157.1 metres in length and 10.4 metres in width, has been constructed with two lanes of carriageway and sidewalks on the Medawachchiya-Mannar-Thalaimannar (A 14) Road.

The causeway has been extended up to 3.14 km in length and 11.0 m width, comprising two lanes of carriageway.

The existing bridge and causeway which connect the Mannar Island and the mainland were constructed in 1930s with a single lane which is narrow in width. It was the only access road to the Mannar Island from the mainland, the report added.

This bridge which was damaged due to a terrorist bomb blast in 1990, was restored with a temporary steel bailey bridge which was narrow in width and was restricted for heavy vehicles of over 10 tonnes, the report said.

Around 41,000 people living in Mannar Island will directly benefit by this project which will vastly improve the market approachability and facilitating transportation at a low cost.