The project for improvements to Kahatagasdigiliya – Dematawewa road 20km in length was carried out amidst the North-East War which had gradually spread towards the Dematawewa border of the project during mid-2006. The situation further worsened due to the interruption of supply of 60/70 bitumen and shortage of construction material due to a reduced number of suppliers, along with a highly unsettled workforce amidst the constant threat of danger.
In spite of these difficulties, the project was successfully completed in January 2007 by a resilient project team, highlighting the value of infrastructure development in conflict affected areas. In recognition of the above, the project was awarded the ICTAD Construction Performance Award in 2008.
