In a significant initiative to enhance the convenience of pilgrims, the newly constructed ‘Golden Gate’ entrance staircases were declared open yesterday (21), leading through the Menik River to the sacred Ruhunu Kataragama Maha Devalaya.
The construction commenced on 16 February 2023, and this endeavour included the construction of two staircases adorned with decorative guard walls, was designed to facilitate pilgrims participating in the 'Kataragama Pada Yatra.'
Spanning an impressive width of 56 feet and extending 300 feet in length, it represents a significant addition to the infrastructure surrounding the sacred Devalaya.
The project was carried out by 35 skilled airmen from the Civil Engineering Wing at SLAF Base Katunayake, led by Project Officer Squadron Leader Imithra Herath and supervised by Director General Construction Engineering, Air Vice Marshal Chandana Geethpriya.
The Ruhunu Kataragama Maha Devalaya provided financial assistance for the construction.
The ceremony was attended by Maha Sanga, including the Chief Incumbent of the Kiriwehera Rajamaha Vihara in Kataragama, Ven. Kobawaka Damminda Thera, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Speaker of the Parliament Mahinda Yapa Abeywardana, Chief of the Presidential Staff and National Security Advisor Sagala Ratnayaka, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Vidura Wickramanayake, State Minister of Irrigation and Water Supply Shasheendra Rajapaksa, Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa and Ruhunu Kataragama Maha Devalaya Basnayake Nilame, Dishan Gunasekara.
