Rapid growth in Construction sector

Poverty reduction is the main solution to avoid the resurgence of the underworld, said Construction, Engineering, Housing and Common Amenities Minister Wimal Weerawansa.

Participating in the opening of the construction of Thirappane Janasewana Housing Scheme, Minister Weerawansa said that some people engage in underworld activities as they don't have any other means to earn money.

The minister also said that if they have a fixed abode and a way to make money they will never join with underworld gangs. If not they automatically become criminals as there is no aim in their lives.

"Providing a fixed abode is the main way to reduce poverty. President Mahinda Rajapaksa has introduced a number of projects for poverty reduction.

The Janasevana 100,000- Housing Project is one of these introduced by the President with the objective to provide a house for all those who haven't a fixed abode," said the minister.

The National Housing Development Authority (NHDA) has already taken measures to start 100 housing projects throughout the country. As the first project the NHDA has started Thirappane housing project at a cost of Rs. 120 million. All construction will be done under the supervision of the NHDA.

"During the past three months there was rapid growth by 17.3 percent in the construction sector. New job opportunities were created in this field due to this situation. Skilled labour shortage is the main problem that we are facing today.

'The Youth Affairs and Skills Development Ministry has already taken measures to produce skilled labour for the construction field" the minister added. courtesy. DailyNews...