11th November 2021 12:00:25 Hours
The new three-storied ‘Dharmashalawa’, built at the historic Somawathiya Rajamaha Vihara temple premises in Polonnaruwa with the technical expertise of 15 Corps of Engineering Services (CES) troops of the Security Force Headquarters - East under the 'Pibidemu Polonnaruwa Project' was declared open on Sunday (7) during a simple ceremony, headed by Most Ven Pahamune Sri Sumangala Nayake Thero, Incumbent, Somawathiya Raja Maha Viharaya and Secretary to Malwatta Chapter.
At the auspicious minute, the former President Maithreepala Sirisena, the Commander Security Forces - East, Major General Channa Weerasuriya, together with several other dignitaries unveiled a plaque and opened the new three-storied building after cutting a symbolic ribbon.
Thereafter, alms were also offered to 50 members of the Maha Sangha before the foundation-stone was laid for proposed construction of the Sanghawasaya (residential quarters), relic chamber and the Museum in the compound. The same 15 CES Regiment troops have been entrusted the construction of those new wings.
At the request of the Chief Incumbent of Somawathiya Rajamaha Viharaya, certificates of appreciation were also awarded to all the troops of 15 CES Regiment in recognition of their dedicated contribution to the erection of the preaching hall.
The proceedings of the religious rituals were organized adhering to COVID-19 protocols taking the pandemic situation into consideration.
