* USAID-funded road and drainage system opened in Ampara, Sri Lanka
The United States has funded an 8-kilometer road and drainage system, which was opened today in Pottuvil, Ampara. The US Embassy in Colombo said its United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) funded the project to construct a low maintenance, durable road system and drainage structure throughout the Pottuvil Division. In the past, the roads flooded and became almost impassable, the Embassy said, adding that the finished roads have had a major impact on Pottuvil by reducing dust in the town and increasing locals' access to essential services, including schools, health clinics and places of worship. The project also created jobs and experience in the area. For the opening ceremony, USAID and UNOPS welcomed representatives from local government and the community.