The Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa and the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, General Kamal Gunaratne (Retd) inspected the construction progress of the Nilgiri Stupa today (30 May 2024), a structure of significant historical and cultural importance in Buddhist history. This site, known for housing the largest number of relic caskets in the Eastern Province, is being constructed with the skillful labour assistance of the Sri Lanka Air Force.

The Nilgiri Stupa, situated in the Lahugala area on the Siambalanduwa-Pothuvil road at the border of the Monaragala and Ampara districts. It is being carefully restored to ensure it is preserved for future generations. The Mahianganaya Clay Roof Tile Factories, operated by the SLAF, are manufacturing the bricks necessary for the construction of the Nilgiri Stupa, which will stand 215 feet high and 104 feet wide.

Apart from the visit to the Nilgiri Stupa, the Commander of the Air Force, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence and Commander of the Army inspected another significant construction project, the Deegavapiya Stupa. This project, which is also a vital heritage of Buddhist culture, is currently being undertaken by tri-service personnel.