Diyatha Uyana, which epitomises the path-breaking creative urban renewal projects launched and completed before 2015, is located in Battaramulla, near the Waters Edge Hotel.
The park has been constructed on a marshy land on the banks of the Diyawanna Oya. It sits between the Parliamentary Complex and the Diyawanna Oya at the Polduwa Junction.
Diyatha Uyana was opened on September 15, 2012. It was set up under the guidance of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who was then the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence and Urban Development. The project was carried out by the Army, Navy, and Civil Security Force.
The commercial area of the Diyatha Uyana has 164 stalls. It has a restaurant at its centre, as well as 12 food stalls. It has also been estimated that the Diyatha Uyana receives crowds numbering 5,000 per weekday, as well as 20,000 on weekends.
Since its inception, Diyatha Uyana has succeeded in attracting people from all over the country. The park can be easily reached from the commercial capital.
It is an ideal place for families to spend quality time away from the hustle and bustle of the city; amid the colourful jets of water rising from the fountain there, which adds much vibrancy to the setting.
Diyatha Uyana spans an area of 88 hectares, and the marshes surrounding it serve as a natural water retention measure against floods.
The Diyawanna Oya, which covers an area of 50 acres, is surrounded by a walkway that has been built at the site. Encompassing the Diyawanna Oya, this track bridges the tranquility of the lake and the tumult of the Parliament road. As it extends for 1.8km around the lake, it is also ideal for long jogs to get your adrenaline pumping in the morning.
Those who wish to relax can sit on the stone benches along the track, or even take boat rides while catching the picturesque sun-kissed waters during mornings or evenings. The lush greenery and the peaceful environment amidst the placid waters of the Diyawanna Oya provide the public with an ideal place to unwind, whatever time of day.
As one passes the Diyawanna Oya, they cannot help but notice the green garden chairs placed in strategic locations for the public to relax on, take the weight off their feet, and enjoy the surroundings.
The Waters Edge floating restaurant was opened in December, 2012. It was set up under the Offshore Patrol Construction Project of the Navy. The restaurant, which is 51 feet in length and 31 feet in breadth, can accommodate 36 to 55 persons.
A technical team from the Navy was appointed to handle all the mechanical issues related to the restaurant. A hotel crew including a chef was also provided. Night rides are available there, enabling tourists to view the city even at dusk. The floating restaurant can also be booked for personal events.
from daily news