The government has assigned high priority for widening and improvement of dilapidated, narrow bridges that have reached the end of their serviceable life. The funds will be allocated to seven provinces and used to construct or rehabilitate 25 bridges, ranging in length from about 7m to 120m. The loan will cover about 77% of the total cost and the Sri Lankan government will provide the remaining funds.

The project aims to meet increasing demand for the transport of passengers and goods and to contribute to the economic and social development of the project area. Building and rehabilitating the bridges is also intended to reduce vehicle operation and road maintenance costs, cut travel time and reduce accidents.