Sri Lanka, Jan. 21 -- An ancient stone road has been uncovered in the area below the Ulpathgama 13 Ela fields in Hasalaka, where the Mahaweli River flows. Local residents noticed the structure after intense rainfall from Cyclone Ditwa, and the subsequent opening of spillway gates at the Victoria, Randenigala, and Rantambe reservoirs caused significant erosion along the riverbanks.

The pathway, measuring approximately 6 feet in width and extending 60 feet from the bank toward the center of the river, appears to be constructed of carefully laid stones. W.A. Mahinda Wijesinghe, an archaeological explorer from Minipe, suggested that the route likely served ancient settlers for crossing toward Mahiyangana or accessing the river for bathing....