The White Temple Hotel in Polonnaruwa, owned by a prominent businessman, has been deemed legal by the Irrigation Department, dismissing claims that it encroaches on Parakrama Samudra’s tank reserve. A fresh land survey will determine if any additional area has been occupied, following public uproar and political statements suggesting demolition.
The White Temple Hotel located near the banks of Parakrama Samudra in Polonnaruwa cannot be demolished, said the District Director General of the Irrigation Department, who confirmed the property is legally constructed.
The hotel, owned by a well-known rice industry entrepreneur, has come under scrutiny in recent weeks following political statements questioning its legitimacy and location.
According to the Director General, the land on which the hotel stands was officially allocated to the Tourism Board back in 1977. Based on current records, the construction was carried out in accordance with legal procedures.
However, the official added that a re-survey is expected to take place shortly. This re-survey will help verify whether the hotel has expanded beyond its legally allocated land and encroached into adjacent areas.
Earlier, a senior minister stated that the hotel would be subject to removal under a forthcoming initiative aimed at redrawing boundaries of the Parakrama Samudra tank reserves. The remark caused a stir and prompted the Irrigation Department to issue this clarification.
The Director General made these comments in response to claims made by a political figure who had earlier demanded action, citing alleged land encroachment.
While the debate continues, authorities insist that no demolition action can be taken until the survey results provide concrete evidence of boundary violations.
