Aug 01, Kandy: The government hopes to upgrade Sri Lanka's historic hill capital city of Kandy to an eco-friendly destination with its ancient prestige conserved, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said while paying homage to the Historic Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth) Sunday morning.

President Rajapaksa also observing the preparations taking place for the Esala Procession to be held later this month in Kandy said proper motor traffic plan will also be introduced in the city to make the traffic more organized and convenient. The president explained that 400 million rupees were allocated for development activities in the Central Province during last four years.

The President made these remarks when he called on the chief prelates of Malwathu and Asgiri after participating in religious activities at the Temple.

Central Province Governor Tikiri Kobbekaduwa, Chief Minister Sarath Ekanayaka, Temple Custodian (Diya wadana Nilame ) Nilanga Dela Bandara, President's Chief of Staff Gamini Senarath accompanied the President to the Temple.

(Pictures by Sudath Silva)