A progress review meeting to discuss the Deegawapiya Stupa restoration project was convened at the Defence Ministry today (June 10).

Accordingly, Defence Secretary and Head of ‘Archaeological Heritage Management Presidential Task Force’ (PTF) for Eastern Province Gen. Kamal Gunaratne (Retd) chaired the meeting.

The progress of construction work, manufacturing process of bricks and labour employed for the same, financial status, administration, supervision and work in the pipeline with relevant issues were also discussed during the session.

Directives were given to continue the process while adhering to the stipulated healthcare guidelines in a bid to contain the spread of coronavirus.  

Chief Prelate of Deegawapiya Temple Ven. Mahaoya  Sobhitha thero, Secretary Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Ministry Prof. Kapila Gunawardana, Public Security Ministry Secretary Maj. Gen. Jagath Alwis (Retd), Secretary, State Ministry of National Heritage, Performing Arts and Rural Arts Promotion Nishanthi Jayasinghe, Director General of Archaeology Prof. Anura Manatunga, Director General Civil Security Department Maj. Gen. Nandana Senadeera (Retd), Secretary to the PTF and Senior Assistant Secretary to the President Jeevanthie Senanayake, other PTF members, senior military officers, architects, archaeologists, engineers and surveyors were also present.