Moragahakanda Bridge Gone! Flash Floods Rip Through Mighty Construction

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka is grappling with one of its worst weather disasters in recent years as Cyclone Ditwah unleashed torrential rains and flash floods, sweeping away vital bridges and severing lifelines between communities.

Among the most devastating impacts is the destruction of three major bridges, critical for regional connectivity:

Moragahakanda Main Bridge:

The Moragahakanda Main Bridge, located along the Moragahakanda–Hettipola Road (B312), was swept away by raging waters. This bridge served as a vital link between Matale, Polonnaruwa, and Kurunegala districts, supporting agricultural transport and access to the Moragahakanda Reservoir, the largest in the Mahaweli Development Project.

Its collapse has stranded thousands and disrupted irrigation supply lines tied to the reservoir. [attraction...ilanka.com], [youtube.com]

Elahera Bridge:

The Elahera Bridge, positioned on the Naula–Polathuwadiya Road, was another casualty.

Its destruction has halted relief convoys and isolated villages in Polonnaruwa and Matale, where floodwaters have submerged farmlands and homes.

3. Kumara Ella Bridge :

On the Dambulla–Mahiyanganaya Road, the Kumara Ella Bridge collapsed under relentless currents.

This road is a lifeline for trade and tourism, connecting the cultural triangle to the Uva Province.