Patna, (Bihar Times): The ancient Indian towns of Gaya and Bodh Gaya may get a facelift––courtesy the Asian Development Bank (ADB), which has shown its eagerness to invest Rs five billion. It is in Bodh Gaya, a small town about 12 km from Gaya, that Gautam Buddha got enlightenment.

According to sources the ADB will invest for the development of urban areas in Gaya in three phases. In the first phase, it will invest Rs five billion. A five-member ADB team from its headquarters in Manila visited Gaya and Bodh Gaya towns on Tuesday. The team was there for the first hand information on problems and challenges faced by the people. The team held discussions with district administration officials during the visit.

The ADB will fund in upgrading the drainage system, improving drinking water supply and properly disposing solid waste in Gaya.

Gaya and Bodh Gaya are equally important for both Hindus and Buddhists. While lakhs of Hindus gather here every year, especially during Pitripaksha Mela, for the salvation of the dead souls of the near and dear ones, a large number of Budhists from all over the world converge to Bodh Gaya, especially during the winter season, to offer prayer at Mahabodhi Temple and other temples.

The Union government has selected Patna and Gaya for its development plan.

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