President Ranil Wickremesinghe announced plans to implement a program aimed at transforming Anuradhapura, once a major trade and economic center, into a globally renowned city.
He emphasized the need to highlight Anuradhapura’s cultural, educational, commercial, and economic values and to initiate archaeological research to bring its significance to the world stage. While cities like Tanjore, Madras, and Sanchipuram receive global attention, Anuradhapura has yet to be developed to the same extent.
The President mentioned that he would discuss these plans with the Director General of UNESCO, who is visiting Sri Lanka this week.
Several universities worldwide have already expressed interest in supporting these initiatives.
President Wickremesinghe made these remarks during the ceremony to inaugurate the 150-kilowatt solar power system installed by the LTL Group at the historic Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya premises in Anuradhapura yesterday (13).
He also stated that the government would support powering the Atamasthana and the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi premises.
During his visit to the Anuradhapura shrine, the President met with the Chief Incumbent of the Atamasthana in Anuradhapura and Chief Sanghanayake Thera of Nuwara Kalaviya Most Ven. Dr. Pallegama Hemarathana Nayake Thera and engaged in a brief discussion.
After paying obeisance to the historic Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi and receiving blessings, he participated in the solar power system’s inauguration.
Additionally, President Wickremesinghe interacted with the public gathered at the Anuradhapura sacred grounds, engaging in friendly conversations and gathering their input.
In a significant move towards the government’s national policy of reducing carbon emissions and achieving a zero-emission target, LTL Holdings has dedicated a 150-kilowatt solar power system to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. This marks the first phase of its net zero carbon emission plan.
This solar power system meets the entire power requirement of the Sri Maha Bodhiya precinct, making the premises of Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi a net zero carbon emission zone for the first time in history.
Expressing his views at this ceremony, President Wickremesinghe said;
“We extend our gratitude to LTL Holdings for their commitment to introducing renewable energy, including solar power, to Sri Lanka. Despite achieving global recognition today, LTL has remained rooted in its Sri Lankan origins.
The government continues to support initiatives at the premises housing the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya and at the Atamasthana, ensuring ongoing and future support. Anuradhapura boasts a rich history spanning over a millennium, once renowned as a hub of trade and economics. Preserving and exploring this ancient city’s archaeological treasures remains a significant endeavour.
During President J.R. Jayawardene’s tenure, the Cultural Triangle initiative, developed in collaboration with UNESCO’s Director General, and brought international acclaim to cities like Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy, and Anuradhapura. Following the completion of this landmark project, new archaeological efforts in the Anuradhapura district are now imperative.
Meanwhile, UNESCO has undertaken extensive archaeological projects in Angkor Thom, Cambodia, supported by France and other nations over the past few decades. Similar efforts have enhanced Luang Prabang in Laos, facilitated by UNESCO in collaboration with France. Additionally, the Chinese government has initiated archaeological ventures across various sites, utilizing its financial resources effectively.
However, we have not taken the necessary steps to implement these activities in Anuradhapura city. Therefore, I have advised both the Department of Archaeology and the Cultural Triangle to undertake these initiatives. Additionally, an agreement has been reached with Durham University to conduct excavation work at the Maha Viharaya. I have consulted with leaders and instructed them to expedite these efforts, with Dr. Prashantha Gunawardena coordinating these activities.
The Maha Viharaya represents just a portion of Anuradhapura’s rich history. Hence, I have invited the Director General of UNESCO to visit Sri Lanka and discuss initiatives for long-term archaeological endeavours in the Anuradhapura city. Several universities overseas have shown interest in supporting us for these activities, and we are moving forward with their collaboration.
These efforts are part of a comprehensive program aimed at establishing Anuradhapura as a globally renowned city.
While Sigiriya has gained international fame, we have not adequately highlighted Anuradhapura’s historical significance as a major trade and economic center in the past. Cities like Tanjore (Thanjavur), Madurai, and Sanchipuram are often discussed, yet Anuradhapura, the fourth city, has been overlooked. Therefore, it is crucial to develop Anuradhapura city.
As part of these initiatives, preparations are underway to establish new hotels in Anuradhapura, which will contribute significantly to its development.”
Chief Sanghanayake Thera of Nuwara Kalaviya Most Ven. Dr. Pallegama Hemarathana Nayake Thera said,
“It should be noted that the President, who attended the event, received blessings from the Maha Vihara faction. His participation in charitable activities brings continuous blessings. Two years ago, there was a power crisis which the current president successfully resolved. Issues with electricity bills in religious places were resolved through the government’s program to provide renewable energy, which has proven effective. Today, the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi precinct is illuminated by solar energy, a significant spiritual merit according to dharma. As the Maha Sangha, we wish for all your aspirations to be fulfilled.”
State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe said,
“President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s economic reform initiatives, aimed at steering the country away from economic crises, have shown significant progress today. These efforts have necessitated several economic reform programs. The government has actively promoted renewable energy expansion, enhancing opportunities in this sector. The introduction of the net metering system ensures fair billing based on actual electricity consumption. As part of accelerating the provision of electricity to religious shrines through renewable energy, solar panels are being installed and provided to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya. It is noteworthy that the government is also implementing various programs to safeguard religious sites.”
Presidential Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to the President on National Security Sagala Ratnayaka said,
“Twenty-two years ago, LTL initiated electric lighting at the Ruwanweli Seya premises, with Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe participating as Prime Minister at the time. LTL has significantly impacted Sri Lanka’s electricity sector, establishing itself locally and gaining international prominence through dedication and innovation. In 2002, during Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe’s tenure as Prime Minister, Sri Lanka faced severe power cuts of up to 18 hours daily.
Upon assuming office as President in 2022, power cuts persisted for nearly 13 hours daily. However, within six months, President Ranil Wickremesinghe effectively managed these challenges, significantly improving the country’s energy landscape. Sri Lanka has introduced the net metering system, enabling consumers to pay for actual electricity consumption only.
India has awarded a $10 million prize to support renewable energy expansion in Sri Lanka, alongside a $100 million loan for further initiatives in this sector.”
Chief Executive Officer of LTL Nuhuman Marikkar said,
“The installation of solar panels at religious shrines commences today. In addition to illuminating these sacred sites, there are plans underway to establish a 150 MW renewable power plant in the Siambalanduwa area. LTL Company remains steadfast in its commitment to meeting public energy needs through the promotion of renewable energy.”
Notable attendees at the event included the Maha Sangha of the province, Members of Parliament S.M. Chandrasena and Duminda Dissanayake, former Minister P. Harrison, former Chief Minister S.M. Ranjith, Ceylon Electricity Board Chairman Nalinda Ilangakoon, and other dignitaries.
