July 29, Colombo: The government is to launch a project to upgrade the basic infrastructure facilities in selected 100 urban low-income settlements on lands owned by the National Housing Development Authority (NHDA) and Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) covering the city of Colombo and the Western Province.

Sri Lanka Cabinet yesterday approved a proposal submitted by the Minister of Construction, Engineering Services, Housing, and Common Amenities Wimal Weerawansa seeking funds for the project under the concept of 'Nagamu Purawara'

The project targeted to be completed by year end will cost Rs 50 million.

The project under 'Nagamu Purawara' is aimed to replace the slums and dilapidated housing schemes to suitable dwelling places, provide sanitary and common bathing facilities, and to develop adequate waste and drainage facilities, access roads, power, and drinking water facilities.

According to the National Housing Development Authority (NHDA) a total of 1,492 under-served settlements in Colombo city have been identified for development.