“Maga Bags First Stage of Central Expressway as Cabinet Gives Green Light”
- CNL Reporter
- August 20, 2025
- News, Political
- Maga
- 0 Comments
The Cabinet of Ministers has formally approved awarding the contract for the first stage of the much-delayed Central Express Highway (CEH)—Phase 3—to Maga Engineering (Pvt) Ltd., selecting the lowest responsive bidder through a competitive tender process
This key corridor, known as Section 3 of the expressway project, covers the route designed to enhance connectivity between Mirigama and Kurunegala. The Cabinet’s decision comes after months of stalling and cost escalations in this strategic infrastructure initiative
Maga Engineering’s award marks a shift in government strategy toward transparent and efficient execution of essential transport infrastructure. Authorities hope that engaging a dependable local firm under transparent conditions will help contain surging costs and speed up project delivery—a priority given Sri Lanka’s urgent development needs.
Once completed, the Central Express Highway will offer a much-needed express link from Colombo to central provinces, significantly reducing travel times on the congested A1 and A6 corridors. The initial phase will pave the way for further construction work, fostering smoother traffic flow and unlocking regional economic growth
Observers are viewing this Cabinet nod as a positive restart to a previously stalled megaproject. With a focus on cost control and timely delivery, the government seems determined to turn the Central Express Highway from a lengthy ambition into a functional transport artery.
