Mega irrigation projects under way

Colombo: Most of the work on the Weheragala, Deduru Oya, Rambhakan Oya and Kakeriobadha Oya projects, part of a mega hydro development programme initiated by the Government investing over Rs. 10,000 million are under way easing the water problem faced by farmers for cultivation while fulfilling the requirements of drinking water needs, electricity and freshwater fishing.
Irrigation Minister Jayatissa Ranaweera told the Daily News that these four irrigation projects in Moneragala, Puttalam, Kurunegala, Ampara and Hambantota would provide sufficient water during Yala and Maha seasons covering nearly 40,000 hectares of farmland.
He said that the Government plans to rehabilitate lakes, small tanks and anicuts to provide water to abandoned paddy lands. “We will give priority to develop the irrigation system for the drinking water requirements and farming in the respective districts. It has also planned to increase the additional cropping in each district,” the Minister said.
He said all these projets are being implemented by using modern technology under the guidance of local and foreign experts.
The Government is in the process of developing the irrigation system which is a pledge of Mahinda Chintana. New reservoirs, tanks and anicuts will be constructed to help the cultivation process.
He also said that feasibility reports are being prepared to explore possibilities for the funding to commence work on three proposed massive reservoirs including Yan Oya, Oma Oya and Hada Oya. With the implementing of the Hada Oya project, sufficient water will be provided to cultivate 5,600 hectares in the Ampara district.