Land dispute delays Demodara Nine-Arch Bridge lighting project

By Indika Sri Aravinda

The long-awaited lighting project at the Demodara Nine-Arch Bridge, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic tourist attractions, has been delayed due to objections from private landowners, the Central Cultural Fund (CCF) said.  

CCF Director General Dr. Nilan Cooray said the delay arose after landowners refused permission for the installation of power lines needed to operate the transformer that will illuminate the bridge and its surroundings.  

 Alternative arrangements are now being made to reroute the electricity lines and keep the project on track. Launched as a joint initiative between the Central Cultural Fund and the Department of Railways, the project aims to create a dedicated tourist zone around the bridge. Originally scheduled for completion this month, the project will now be extended to next month.  

So far, around Rs. 300 million has been spent. Once finished, both local and foreign visitors will be charged an entry fee, with 20% of the revenue going to the Railway Department and 80% to the CCF, which will also cover operational costs including electricity.  

The project will illuminate the bridge and nearby temple with energy-efficient “warm white” lights, highlighting the bridge’s British-era architectural and engineering heritage without compromising its historical value. About 70 light bulbs have already been installed, and the first phase is expected to open to the public in November.  

Several government agencies, including the Department of Archaeology, Urban Development Authority, Central Environmental Authority, and Department of Forest Conservation, are also supporting the initiative.  

Dr. Cooray added that the CCF plans to develop similar tourist zones at Ritigala, Yapahuwa, and Tissamaharama to promote sustainable cultural tourism across Sri Lanka.