Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has stated that an allocation of Rs. 180 million has been made from the Central Cultural Fund for the conservation of Gallangolla Mulamaha Viharaya. The restoration project is being jointly implemented by the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs and the Central Cultural Fund.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya made these remarks today (19) while attending the commencement of restoration work at the Pothgul Mulamaha Viharaya in Gallangolla, Welamboda, Udunuwara, which was damaged by Cyclone Ditwah, the PM’s Office said.

The restoration activities at the temple commenced under the guidance of the Chief Incumbent of the temple, Venerable Ambanpola Sarada Nayaka Thero, the statement said.

Addressing the occasion, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated:

“The true objectives of the Central Cultural Fund are now being delivered effectively. Rs. 185 million has been allocated for the conservation of Gallangolla Moolamaha Viharaya solely from the Fund’s allocations. This clearly demonstrates how much more could have been accomplished if the resources of the Central Cultural Fund had not been misused in the past.

The government collects revenue not to keep it in the Treasury or for any other purpose, but to return benefits to the people. The government has allocated Rs. 500 million for relief efforts related to the cyclone Ditwah. We are also taking steps to construct 15,000 houses. All of this is being done without resorting to additional borrowing.

At the same time, if we are to move towards the transformative era we aspire to achieve as a government, economic development alone is not sufficient. We must develop every sector, including our heritage, culture, and education. In particular, if we are to pass on our heritage and culture to future generations, we must protect them today. By conserving the Gallangolla Pothgul Mulamaha Viharaya, not only will this important heritage site be safeguarded, but the entire area will also benefit and develop.”