Medan administration saves Sri Deli pond

MEDAN, North Sumatra: The Medan administration managed to save a historical pond in Sri Deli Park by removing soil covering it, an official said on Thursday.

"To preserve the pond that dates back to the Deli sultanate, the administration decided to restore it after it was filled in with dirt by the owner, Benny Basri," said Chairullah, a staff member of Medan's public relations office.

Benny reportedly bought Sri Deli Park from the royal family in August 1995. He then upgraded the park in a bid to attract visitors and decided to fill in the pond, said to be used by the Deli king to bathe in. (39/edt)