MOHAMMED ZAHRAN
COLOMBO : The section of R.A. de Mel Mawatha (Sri Uttarananda Mawatha) extending from St. Michael’s Roundabout to Rotunda Roundabout alongside Temple Trees was reopened to the public in October last year after remaining closed for nearly nineteen years due to security concerns.
This long-awaited reopening has significantly improved public accessibility and convenience. However, on my way to the mosque yesterday, I observed a serious safety concern that requires the immediate attention of the Colombo Municipal Council.
There is presently no pedestrian crossing near the roundabout linking the Kollupitiya Jumma Mosque (KJM) and the Polwatte Pumping Station (PPS). A large number of pedestrians—including schoolchildren, elderly persons, worshippers, and residents—cross this busy stretch of road daily. The absence of a designated zebra crossing exposes them to unnecessary danger and increases the risk of a serious accident.
The installation of a clearly marked pedestrian crossing at this location would greatly enhance road safety, facilitate orderly traffic movement, and provide pedestrians with a safe means of crossing the road.
I kindly appeal to Her Worship the Mayoress, Ms. Vraie Cally Balthazaar, to take urgent steps to have a zebra crossing marked between KJM and PPS without delay.
I also wish to reiterate my sincere appreciation to Hon. Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya for facilitating the reopening of this road following my humble request*. The decision has already brought immense benefit to the public. The addition of a zebra crossing at this critical location would further enhance the value of this welcome initiative and help safeguard the lives of countless pedestrians.
