Dehippawa Raja Maha Viharaya needs immediate attention

A A L Dias - Matale district group corr

Dehippawa Raja Maha Viharaya, about 10 miles away from Rangiri Dambulla rock temple, which has a long history upto the reign of King Devanampiyatissa, needs immediate attention, villagers said.

The Archaeological Department declared this place an archaeological site although action has not been to conserve the ruins of this historical place, they said.

The stupa constructed by King Devanampiyatissa can still be seen although it was damaged by treasure hunters.

The murals in the shrine rooms are discoluored while the statues are also damaged.

Dehippawa Raja Maha vihara incumbent Ven Kadana Saddhananda Thera said he came here in 1985.

"The Archaeological Department has not taken any action to restore it and treasure hunters are devastating this place," he said.

He urged the Government to take immediate action to conserve this historic place.