The previously-abandoned Ruwanpura Expressway Project (REP) has been recommenced, with the Road Development Authority (RDA) resuming land acquisition, The Sunday Morning learns.

It is reliably learnt that the RDA is looking for an investor to recommence REP construction work.

The proposed Ruwanpura Expressway connects the Western Province with the Sabaragamuwa Province, spanning from Kahathuduwa to Pelmadulla to Ratnapura. 

Divided into three phases, Phase I covers Kahathuduwa to Ingiriya, Phase II extends from Ingiriya to Ratnapura, and Phase III runs from Ratnapura to Pelmadulla. 

Despite initial plans for multiple contractors, the Cabinet removed the Chinese contractor from Phase I due to financial concerns and awarded the project to Maga Engineering Ltd. 

However, the project was later abandoned by the contractors, citing financial difficulties. 

The overall cost of the Ruwanpura Expressway was initially estimated at Rs. 276.3 billion.

Speaking to The Sunday Morning, RDA Director General S.M.P. Suriyabandara stated: “The RDA was instructed to recommence the land acquisition for the Ruwanpura Expressway. We are trying a different model this time and looking for a new investor.

“Other than Ruwanpura, the construction work of the Central Expressway Phase III was underway, but the construction of the Elevated Highway Project from Rajagiriya to Athurugiriya has been on hold due to ongoing court cases,” he added.