A project is afoot to conserve the Deegavapi, the main shrine in the Eastern Province which has been isolated for the past few decades due to terrorist threats.

The project, carried out in three phases, will take place under a directive of President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Steps will be taken to preserve the Salapatala Maluva in the first stage and the stupa in the second phase. A museum will also be constructed with the use of modern technology as the third phase of this project.

The Ministry of National Heritage and Cultural Affairs will carry out the project in collaboration with the Civil Security Department and the Archaeological Department. The staff of the Civil Security Department will be the work force for the preservation work. The Bank of Ceylon (BOC) will grant funds for this project.

The project will be implemented next month.