President Anura Kumara Dissanayake visited the Anuradhapura Sacred City on October 23 to review progress on a proposed development project aimed at upgrading infrastructure and visitor facilities while protecting the historic and religious significance of the ancient city.
According to the President’s Media Division, the project will include improvements to access roads, better facilities for devotees and local and foreign tourists, and enhanced waste management, with priority given to preserving the antiquity and sacred character of the area.
The National Physical Planning Department has prepared a structural plan for the area, gazetted as the Anuradhapura Sacred Area Planning Scheme. An updated development plan and guidelines governing construction and other development activities were published in the Gazette on February 27, 2026.
The project is estimated to cost Rs. 7.7 billion, with the Government of India agreeing to provide financial assistance.
During his visit, President Dissanayake inspected road development work near three historic ponds within the sacred city and archaeological excavations at the Western Monastery complex. He also examined the proposed location for a car park in the Atamasthana area near the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa.
The President held discussions with officials on the progress of planned activities and reviewed the relevant project sites and development plans.
He emphasised that all construction and development work must be undertaken in a manner that safeguards the historical heritage, antiquity and religious importance of the Anuradhapura Sacred Area.
He also instructed officials to accelerate implementation and resolve any issues that arise through discussions involving all relevant stakeholders.
During the visit, the President paid homage to the historic Ruwanwelisaya Stupa and received blessings from the Maha Sangha. Pirith chanting and blessings were conducted by the Maha Sangha led by Most Venerable Eethalawetunuwewe Gnanathilaka Thera, Acting Chief Prelate of the Atamasthana and Chief Incumbent of the Ruwanwelisaya Temple.
President Dissanayake also met members of the public visiting the sacred site and inquired about their well-being, the President’s Media Division said.
Those accompanying the President included Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, North Central Province Governor Wasantha Jinadasa and Anuradhapura District MP Sena Nanayakkara.
Other officials present included President’s Chief of Staff Prabath Chandrakeerthi, Defence Ministry Secretary (Retd.) Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha, Anuradhapura Mayor N. Karunaratne, District Secretary K. G. R. Wimalasuriya and senior representatives of the National Physical Planning Department, Department of Archaeology, Urban Development Authority and Central Cultural Fund.
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