Rs. 165m for Mihintale development

Tennakoon Kulasekara

The Mihintale sacred area will be developed at a cost of Rs. 165 million in preparation for the 2320th Poson festival held this year. This follows a directive issued by President Mahinda Rajapaksa in response to a request made by Mihintale Raja Maha Viharadhipathi Ven. Walahahengunawewe Dhammaratana Nayaka Thera, NCP Chief Minister S. M. Ranjith Samarakoon and Economic Development Deputy Minister S. M. Chandrasena.

The Mihintale sacred area covering 582 acres had been in a neglected state due to official apathy over the years.

Ven. Dhammaratana Thera said the circuitous road in the hilly terrain, meda maluwa road, Devanampiyatissa Mawatha and the road leading to the 'Katu Seya' have been already rehabilitated and carpeted under the ongoing development programme.