Anuradhapura, 31 August 2026 – President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has issued a directive for the immediate review and commencement of the “Anuradhapura Sacred City Development Plan” within the current year. The President’s instructions, issued on August 29th during a pivotal discussion at the Anuradhapura District Secretariat, underscore a vision to transform the revered city into an environmentally sensitive zone, significantly enhancing facilities for pilgrims while preserving its profound historical integrity.
Ambitious Timeline Set for Plan Finalisation
In a move to prevent unnecessary delays, President Dissanayake instructed the Director General of the National Physical Planning Department to present the revised plan, incorporating new proposals, to the Anuradhapura Sacred City Development Committee by the 8th of September. The complete and detailed plan for the comprehensive project is mandated to be finalised by the 15th of September.
Towards a Green and Organised Sacred City
A central tenet of the President’s vision is the establishment of an organised, green transport system aimed at drastically reducing traffic congestion within the Sacred City. Emphasising its development as an environmentally sensitive zone, President Dissanayake specifically called for the restriction of environmentally harmful diesel vehicles. In their place, a circular transport service utilising electric buses is to be introduced, operated as a regular daily service under the purview of the Municipal Council.
Furthermore, discussions highlighted the importance of encouraging pedestrian movement. The plan includes the construction of separate lanes for pedestrians and cyclists, alongside the establishment of shaded rest areas for devotees arriving by train and bus, ensuring a comfortable and spiritual experience for all.
Preserving Living History and Enhancing Pilgrim Experience
President Dissanayake stressed the profound importance of viewing the archaeological sites in Anuradhapura not merely as “ruins,” but as “living historical sites” that continue to be venerated by the public. This perspective will guide the provision of necessary facilities for devotees, ensuring a seamless blend of modern amenities with the sacred ambiance.
Major Investment and Strategic Expansion
The Anuradhapura Sacred City Development Project is undergoing a significant upgrade, with the Government of India contributing to an investment of up to Rs. 6.5 billion, based on the President’s instructions. The project will see the expansion of the existing Sacred City boundary from 28 square kilometres to 38 square kilometres, promising a broader scope for development and preservation.
During the meeting, the President underlined the critical need to clearly delineate components to be executed by UNESCO from those implemented with assistance from the Government of India. This distinction, he noted, would provide clarity to all stakeholders, including the Maha Sangha, regarding the overall project’s execution. Prioritisation of tasks and the preparation of a systematic work programme are crucial to prevent delays often associated with archaeological excavation work. President Dissanayake also insisted on consulting relevant institutions and obtaining preliminary approvals for each project individually before commencing work.
Resettlement and Fair Compensation
A significant aspect of the plan involves the resettlement of 331 families currently residing in the Inner City area. These families are slated to be relocated to Lolugaswewa. Extensive discussions were held on establishing a fair compensation mechanism. President Dissanayake instructed the Divisional Secretary and Chief of Presidential Staff Prabath Chandrakeerthi to directly engage with residents to discuss alternative arrangements, including providing land, houses, or financial compensation, and to make decisions accordingly.
Distinguished Participation
The crucial meeting was attended by Members of the Maha Sangha representing the Atamasthana, public representatives including Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development Wasantha Samarasinghe and Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply Susil Ranasinghe, and Anuradhapura District Secretary Ranjith Wimalasuriya. Heads and senior officials from the National Physical Planning Department, Urban Development Authority, Central Cultural Fund, Department of Archaeology, and other relevant institutions were also present, signalling a unified approach to this monumental development initiative.
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