A government urban planning project in Sri Lanka's historic Sacred City of Anuradhapura has sparked intense political debate following public concerns over structural risks to ancient monuments and new zoning regulations.
The controversy centers on recent infrastructure developments and a official gazette notification issued by authorities managing the ancient Buddhist heritage site in the North Central Province.
Allegations
Former lawmaker Udaya Gammanpila publicly warned that subterranean engineering works carried out under the modernization drive might undermine the structural integrity of ancient stupa foundations across the area.
He further claimed that the revised municipal framework could inadvertently absorb places of worship belonging to other religious denominations into the protected heritage boundary.
Following these statements, activist Upali Ratnayake filed an official complaint with the Criminal Investigation Department, accusing the politician of circulating unfounded claims capable of inciting communal discord.
Official clarification
Department of National Physical Planning Director General Ruchira Withana dismissed the political rhetoric, stating that the regulatory framework was a continuation of urban management strategies established in the nineteen-forties rather than a hasty administrative action.
He confirmed that social media reports regarding provisions for non-Buddhist altars or new kovils within the official boundaries were entirely false.
Officials also addressed public inquiries regarding a newly erected five-hundred-metre perimeter barrier around the Ruwanweli Stupa, explaining that the environmentally conscious structure was designed solely to keep out wandering wildlife without impeding worshipers.
Buddha Sasana Minister Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi and District Secretary K.G.R. Wimalasuriya reassured the public that state actions strictly balance pilgrim convenience with heritage preservation.
Officials stressed that every project phase remains under the direct oversight of the Director General of Archaeology alongside certified physical planning experts.
Sustainable Preservation Strategy
The state reiterates that transparent urban management remains essential to securing the architectural legacy of Anuradhapura while safely accommodating millions of visiting devotees annually.
Leave your comments
Login to post a comment
Post comment as a guest