Dharna Against Entry Fee at Thotlakonda Buddhist Site

Visakhapatnam:Buddhist Monuments Protection Welfare Association (BMPWA) general secretary Kothapalli Venkataramana has sought withdrawal of the entry fee being collected at the historic Thotlakonda Buddhist Complex near here.

As part of the protest, association members staged a demonstration in front of the collectorate on Monday and submitted a memorandum to collector Abhishikt Kishore.

Venkataramana said the ancient Buddhist site, spread across 314.43 acres in Survey No 314 of Mangamaripeta village in Bheemunipatnam mandal, is a valuable historical and archaeological treasure that requires greater protection and further research.

He recalled that the AP High Court had earlier issued stay and status quo orders on proposed constructions in the area following public interest litigations. According to those orders, no alterations or additions should be made to the site.

Venkataramana alleged that the state archaeology department is collecting entry and camera fees from visitors, which has encouraged photo shoots, film shootings, short-film productions, reels, and pre-wedding shoots at the monument. Such activities, he said, could damage the ancient structures and erase valuable historical evidence.

He urged the government to take responsibility for preserving the site's heritage and ensure that the sanctity of the Buddhist monument is maintained.