A rock suspected to be a gemstone has been discovered near the Sri Muthu Mari Amman Kovil in the lower Gallantanna area of Delthotawatta, Galaha, which was severely damaged by landslides triggered by Cyclone Ditwa, police said.
According to Galaha Police, the rock of various colours was found near the temple after a resident alerted authorities upon noticing it following the landslide caused by the disaster.
The landslide has caused damage to several houses in the area and resulted in extensive destruction to the temple as well.
The Sri Muthu Mari Amman Kovil had been constructed by estate workers in the area through collective fundraising efforts since 2010, and there were plans to officially open the temple in March this year. However, the landslide struck before the opening, leaving the estate community deeply distressed over the destruction.
Amid the sorrow caused by the damage to the temple, the discovery of the large, multi-coloured rock suspected to be a gemstone has drawn attention, the reporter said.
Police have currently provided security to the site, while officials from the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau and the National Gem and Jewellery Authority are expected to conduct investigations to determine the nature and value of the rock. (Newswire)