The new Anuradhapura Development Plan has become the subject of intense discussion in recent days. Concerns have been raised alleging a risk of historic stupas including the Ruwanwelisaya subsiding, as well as the possibility of spas and liquor outlets opening within the sacred city.

Addressing a media briefing on 26 October, Pivithuru Hela Urumaya leader Udaya Gammanpila claimed that proposed underground construction could damage the foundations of major stupas. He also alleged that the plan allows the construction of other religious shrines and kovils, as well as the establishment of spas and liquor outlets within public service zones.

  • Udaya Gammanpila alleges threat to stupas and opening of spas
  • National Physical Planning Department says gazette has been misinterpreted
  • CID complaint filed against Gammanpila
  • Allegations that protests aim to protect encroachers' lands

Government clarification and CID complaint

However, the National Physical Planning Department (NPPD) pointed out that these claims stem from a misunderstanding of the gazette notification. The department stated in an announcement that the plan does not intend to build new religious sites or cause disruptions to devotees.

Meanwhile, Upali Ratnayake, an Anuradhapura District activist of the National Intellectual Organisation, and Deepal Thilakarathne, an active member of the Voice of Rajarata University, lodged a complaint with the Criminal Investigation Department against Udaya Gammanpila, stating that his remarks could incite religious unrest and breach public peace.

The real situation behind the protests

A primary objective of this plan is to unearth and excavate archaeological ruins along Sanghamitta Mawatha and Anula Mawatha, located two to three kilometres away from the sacred city, using modern technology. Archaeological values dating back beyond 300 BC are reported to exist in this zone.

However, allegations have surfaced that groups who have constructed unauthorised houses around the ancient city ramparts are behind the protests, fearing they will lose their lands. Reports also indicate that certain individuals and racketeers who obtained permits through political intervention under previous administrations are attempting to disrupt these historic explorations.

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