Defence Secretary and Head of ‘Archaeological Heritage Management Presidential Task Force’ (PTF) for Eastern Province Gen. Kamal Gunaratne chaired a meeting at the Defence Ministry today (Mar 25) to review the progress of Deegawapiya Stupa restoration project.

The progress of construction work, number of labourers employed, archaeological excavations, supervision and work in the pipeline with relevant issues were discussed during the session.

The process of planting Sal trees in order to set up a charming environment and avenues to increase the bricks production were also among his concerns.

Further, directives were given to expedite the construction work of ‘Alms Hall’ and ‘Relics House’ of the Deegawapiya Raja Maha Vihara Premises.

Secretary, State Ministry of National Heritage, Performing Arts and Rural Artist Promotion Nishanthi Jayasinghe, Director General of Archaeology Prof. Anura Manatunga, Director General of National Physical Planning Department Gamini Hewage, Military Liaison Officer of the Ministry of Defence Maj. Gen. Dinesh Nanayakkara, Civil Engineers of Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau, Senior Military Officers and Project Officers were present at the meeting.