Kesaria (Bihar), Dec 19 (ANI): Locals and pilgrims bemoan the dilapidated condition of a Buddhist monument in Bihar, despite it being under the control of the archaeological department.

The Buddhist stupa, located in Kesaria, about 110 kilometres from Patna, is a sought after destination for tourists and pilgrims coming to the state.

Considered to be the highest in the country, the stupa originally measured 169 feet, but after an earthquake in 1934 its height got reduced. When last measured in 1998 the height was found 104 feet and 10 inches.

According to Sita Ram Yadav, secretary, Mahatma Buddha Sewa Sangh, despite its distinction, the stupa remains neglected with the administration taking no steps to facilitate tourists.

“We consider government’s apathy to be responsible for this (dilapidated condition of the Buddhist monument). Locals have tried to draw attention of lawmakers towards restoring the ancient monument but still it is not getting its due importance,” Yadav said.

The tourists also say that the monument is being neglected.

“You can see bricks of the monuments have broken because of negligence. Such things should not happen,” said Madhu Ranjan Kishore, a tourist from neighbouring Jharkhand. (ANI)