Kalladi Bridge

Laney Manning Bridge, formerly known as the Kallady Bridge, holds a cherished place in the hearts of the locals. This sentiment is even captured in a Sinhala song, intertwining simple yet profound meanings. The bridge’s fame owes much to the folk belief of singing fish beneath it, attracting tourists from all across the island eager to witness this phenomenon.

Location of Kalladi Bridge

Kalladi Bridge stands along the Batticaloa-Akkarepattu A4 main road in the Batticaloa District of the Eastern Province. At the time of its construction, this 220-meter-long bridge held the title of being Sri Lanka’s longest bridge. A newer bridge, situated about 10 feet from the old one, spans 46 feet.

History of Kalladi Bridge

The need for a bridge across the lagoon in Kalmunai and Batticaloa was pressing in the past, as citizens and rulers relied on sampan boats via the Kalladi Ferry. The colossal iron bridge, initiated in 1921, was completed by 1924. Named after the British Governor’s wife at the time, the bridge became known as Lady Manning Bridge.

Batticaloa’s Strategic Significance

During the war, Batticaloa emerged as a critical target for both warring factions, underscoring its strategic importance.

The Legend of the Singing Fish

Numerous folktales and legends have sprung around Kalladi Bridge, with its historical role as a connector between separated communities being significant. Particularly prominent is the myth of the singing fish beneath the bridge.

To substantiate these rumors, Father Frank Lan, a resident in the 1960s, recorded the sounds of fish beneath the bridge, broadcasting it on Sri Lanka Radio Service. Zoologists speculate that a unique species of fish capable of emitting sounds might inhabit the nearby lagoon.

Excerpt from Dinamina Newspaper

An excerpt from Dinamina newspaper reads, “Mr. S. O. Kanagaratnam, the chief historian of the Eastern Province, has reported that wonderful musical sounds can be heard from the lagoon’s depths in various spots above and below the port opposite the old Dutch fort of Batticaloa. These sounds are believed to emanate from a distinct fish species that resides solely in that region.”

The New Kalladi Bridge

Following the cessation of war and transportation enhancements, a new bridge was initiated, concluding in 2013. This 946-foot-long, 46-foot-wide bridge features four spans. While the new bridge caters to vehicular traffic, the old bridge remains accessible for bicycles and motorbikes.

Meenagaya train named as singing fish

Among the night intercity trains, the Meenagaya train, which is a special train, travels from Kolaba Fort to Batticaloa. This smoke is named Meenagaya, Meena means fish in Tamil. Gaya means singing. In a separate article, I will bring more details about the train Minagaya that pulls from Kolaba Fort to the city of Singing fishes .