th th16 -18 August 2013

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Proceedings of the(Key Note Speeches and Presentations)

nd2 International Conference onCommunity & Water Services

Sri Lanka

“WATER COOPERATION FORCOMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT”

NATIONAL STEERING COMMITTEE

Hon. Minister Dinesh Gunawardena Minister, Ministry of WSD

Hon. Nirupuma Rajapaksha Deputy Minister, My of WSD

Mr. A. Abegunasekara Secretary, My. WS&D

Mr. Sarath Chandrasiri Vithana Addl. Secretary, My. WS&D

Mr. P. Weerasinghe Senior Asst. Secretary My. WS&D

Mr. K. Hettiarachchi Chairman, NWSDB

Mr. K. L. L.Premanath GM, NWSDB (up to 2013.07.12)

Mr. B. W. R. Balasuriya GM, NWSDB

Mr. L. L. A. Peiris DGM (Central), NWSDB

Mr. N.E.M.S.B. Ekanayaka DGM (North Central), NWSDB

Prof. C. Weerarathna Chairman, LRWHF

Mrs. Kusum Athukorala Chairman, SLWP

Mr. Piyasena Wellakkage Consultant, My. WS&D

Dr. Tanuja Ariyananda Director, LRWHF

Mr. Harsha Suriyaarachchi Trustee, NCWT

Prof. Nimal Gunawardena University of Peradeniya (Agri)

Dr. Nalin Wickramanayaka Open University

Prof. Aruni Weerasinghe University of Rajarata

Prof. Sunil Wickramasuriya University of Moratuwa

Dr. Edwin Salverdor WHO Representative

Prof. N. Rathnayaka Institute of Engineers SL

Dr. Abdulai KaiKai Head, WASH, UNICEF

Mr. A. H. Gunapala Chief Sociologist, NWSDB

Dr. H. Manthrithilake Head IWMI Sri Lanka Program

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

Mr. K. L. L. Premanath - Chair Dr. H. Manthrithilaka

Mr. B. W. R. Balasuriya - Chair Prof. Aruni Weerasinghe

Dr. Tanuja Ariyananda Mr. S. K. S. H. K. Sooriyaarachchi

Prof. C. Weerarathna Mr. PiyasenaWellakkage

Dr. Nalin Wickramanayaka Mr. A. H. Gunapala

Dr. Abdulai KaiKai Prof. N. Rathnayaka

Mr. Sarath Chandrasiri Vithana Mr. N. I. Wickramasinghe

Mr. L. L. A. Peiris Mr. J. H. Meegoda

Mrs. Kusum Athukorala Mr. D. V. Medawatte

Mr. Sunil Rathnayaka Mr. A. M. A. N. Adikari

Mr. N. E. M. S. B. Ekanayake Mr. Gehan de Silva

Mr. M. A. G. Susantha Mr. N. Chandrasena

Ms. D. P. K. Jayasena Mr. N. U. K. Ranathunga

Mr. S. C. Rathnayake Mr. Ranjith Salgado

Mr. P. M. L. C. Wijekoon Mr. D. B. Gunadasa

Mr. Sarath Chandrasiri Vithana Mr. Rohana Liyanage

Mrs. Kusum Athukorala Mr. Sarathchandra Muthubanda

Mr. John Chandradasa

Mr. A.H. Gunapala Ms. W. A. C Sriyani

Mr. D. B. Gunadasa Mr. H. H. Somasiri

Mr. D. Seneviratne Mr. SudathRatnayaka

Dr. Thanuja Ariyananda

Mr. A. H. Gunapala

Mrs. W. M. D. T. Wickramasinghe

THEME COMMITTEE

EXHIBITION COMMITTEE

REGIONAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE

PUBLICITY COMMITTEE

FIELD VISITS

CONFERENCE SECRETARIAT

CONFERENCE COMMITTEES

2 3

NATIONAL STEERING COMMITTEE

Hon. Minister Dinesh Gunawardena Minister, Ministry of WSD

Hon. Nirupuma Rajapaksha Deputy Minister, My of WSD

Mr. A. Abegunasekara Secretary, My. WS&D

Mr. Sarath Chandrasiri Vithana Addl. Secretary, My. WS&D

Mr. P. Weerasinghe Senior Asst. Secretary My. WS&D

Mr. K. Hettiarachchi Chairman, NWSDB

Mr. K. L. L.Premanath GM, NWSDB (up to 2013.07.12)

Mr. B. W. R. Balasuriya GM, NWSDB

Mr. L. L. A. Peiris DGM (Central), NWSDB

Mr. N.E.M.S.B. Ekanayaka DGM (North Central), NWSDB

Prof. C. Weerarathna Chairman, LRWHF

Mrs. Kusum Athukorala Chairman, SLWP

Mr. Piyasena Wellakkage Consultant, My. WS&D

Dr. Tanuja Ariyananda Director, LRWHF

Mr. Harsha Suriyaarachchi Trustee, NCWT

Prof. Nimal Gunawardena University of Peradeniya (Agri)

Dr. Nalin Wickramanayaka Open University

Prof. Aruni Weerasinghe University of Rajarata

Prof. Sunil Wickramasuriya University of Moratuwa

Dr. Edwin Salverdor WHO Representative

Prof. N. Rathnayaka Institute of Engineers SL

Dr. Abdulai KaiKai Head, WASH, UNICEF

Mr. A. H. Gunapala Chief Sociologist, NWSDB

Dr. H. Manthrithilake Head IWMI Sri Lanka Program

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

Mr. K. L. L. Premanath - Chair Dr. H. Manthrithilaka

Mr. B. W. R. Balasuriya - Chair Prof. Aruni Weerasinghe

Dr. Tanuja Ariyananda Mr. S. K. S. H. K. Sooriyaarachchi

Prof. C. Weerarathna Mr. PiyasenaWellakkage

Dr. Nalin Wickramanayaka Mr. A. H. Gunapala

Dr. Abdulai KaiKai Prof. N. Rathnayaka

Mr. Sarath Chandrasiri Vithana Mr. N. I. Wickramasinghe

Mr. L. L. A. Peiris Mr. J. H. Meegoda

Mrs. Kusum Athukorala Mr. D. V. Medawatte

Mr. Sunil Rathnayaka Mr. A. M. A. N. Adikari

Mr. N. E. M. S. B. Ekanayake Mr. Gehan de Silva

Mr. M. A. G. Susantha Mr. N. Chandrasena

Ms. D. P. K. Jayasena Mr. N. U. K. Ranathunga

Mr. S. C. Rathnayake Mr. Ranjith Salgado

Mr. P. M. L. C. Wijekoon Mr. D. B. Gunadasa

Mr. Sarath Chandrasiri Vithana Mr. Rohana Liyanage

Mrs. Kusum Athukorala Mr. Sarathchandra Muthubanda

Mr. John Chandradasa

Mr. A.H. Gunapala Ms. W. A. C Sriyani

Mr. D. B. Gunadasa Mr. H. H. Somasiri

Mr. D. Seneviratne Mr. SudathRatnayaka

Dr. Thanuja Ariyananda

Mr. A. H. Gunapala

Mrs. W. M. D. T. Wickramasinghe

THEME COMMITTEE

EXHIBITION COMMITTEE

REGIONAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE

PUBLICITY COMMITTEE

FIELD VISITS

CONFERENCE SECRETARIAT

CONFERENCE COMMITTEES

2 3

“Water Cooperation for Community Development”

TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION TO THE CONFERENCE

2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

INTRODUCTION

Ministry of Water Supply & Drainage Sri Lanka, National Community Water Trust, National Water ndsupply & Drainage Board and Lanka Rain Water Harvesting Forum jointly organized the 2

th thInternational Conference on “Water Cooperation for Community Development” on 16 -18 August

2013, at North Central Provincial Council Auditorium in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. The Conference is

convened to mark this year's UN declared theme 'International Year of Water Cooperation' and to stfollow up on the 1 International Conference on Community & Water Services held in Kandy, Sri Lanka

in 2011.

Water is one of the important natural resource which has a great impact on the lives and activities of the

people. In the last decade issues related to water has caused immense problems around the world.

Among these are droughts and floods impacting on food security, health related problems, poverty,

pollution, power generation, land degradation etc. As the quality and quantity of water has degraded so

has competition among societies, and communities needing access to clean water has increased.

Water is a shared resource and its management needs to take into account a wide variety of conflicting

interests. Hence, cooperation among the stakeholders is important. There are two key water

management issues. One is the protection of water both in terms of quantity and quality. Second is

making access to water easier for the communities. Cooperation among various stakeholders is crucial

in these issues.

This 3 day conference was held to provide a platform for sharing knowledge, strategies and best

practices and to promote dialogue, mutual understanding and cooperation among communities th thmanaging their water schemes. The inauguration and technical sessions were held on the 16 and 17

thAugust followed by a field visit on 18 August 2013.

PARTICIPANTS

Around 500 participants representing Community Based Organizations, policy makers, water

professionals, academics from India, Pakistan, Maldives, Nepal, Bhutan, other Asian countries and Sri

Lanka attended the international conference on “water Cooperation for Community Development”, th thheld in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka from 16 August to 18 August 2013. Participants included Hon.

Ministers from Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, Member of Lok Sabha India, Members of Parliament Sri

Lanka, Senior Government Officers, Representatives from Donor Agencies, INGO's, NGO's and CBO

Forums, journalists etc.

VENUE

North Central Provincial Council, Maithripala Senanayaka Mawatha, Anuradhpura

Anuradhapura is selected as the venue for this conference since it is a UNESCO water Heritage site. As

Anuradhapura city was in dry zone rulers constructed large lakes to irrigate paddy lands and also to

supply water to the city and also it had the most complex irrigation systems of the ancient world.

4 5

Introduction to the Conference 5

Conference Programme 7

Welcome Address by A. Abeygunasekara, Secretary 13Ministry of Water Supply & Drainage, Sri Lanka

Address of the Hon. S. M. Ranjith Samarakoon 14Chief Minister North Central Province

Address of the Hon. Basil Rajapaksha 15Minister of Economic Development

Address of the Hon. Chaudhry AbidSher Ali 17State Minister for Water & Power, Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Address of the Hon Dr. (Ms.) Mariyam Shakeela 19Minister of Environment, Maldives

Address of the Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena 22Minister of Water Supply & Drainage, Sri Lanka

Key Note address By Prof. Mohan Munasinghe 24Chairman of Munasinghe Institute of Development, Colombo

Conference Declaration 42

thField Visits - 18 August 2013 44

“Water Cooperation for Community Development”

TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION TO THE CONFERENCE

2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

INTRODUCTION

Ministry of Water Supply & Drainage Sri Lanka, National Community Water Trust, National Water ndsupply & Drainage Board and Lanka Rain Water Harvesting Forum jointly organized the 2

th thInternational Conference on “Water Cooperation for Community Development” on 16 -18 August

2013, at North Central Provincial Council Auditorium in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. The Conference is

convened to mark this year's UN declared theme 'International Year of Water Cooperation' and to stfollow up on the 1 International Conference on Community & Water Services held in Kandy, Sri Lanka

in 2011.

Water is one of the important natural resource which has a great impact on the lives and activities of the

people. In the last decade issues related to water has caused immense problems around the world.

Among these are droughts and floods impacting on food security, health related problems, poverty,

pollution, power generation, land degradation etc. As the quality and quantity of water has degraded so

has competition among societies, and communities needing access to clean water has increased.

Water is a shared resource and its management needs to take into account a wide variety of conflicting

interests. Hence, cooperation among the stakeholders is important. There are two key water

management issues. One is the protection of water both in terms of quantity and quality. Second is

making access to water easier for the communities. Cooperation among various stakeholders is crucial

in these issues.

This 3 day conference was held to provide a platform for sharing knowledge, strategies and best

practices and to promote dialogue, mutual understanding and cooperation among communities th thmanaging their water schemes. The inauguration and technical sessions were held on the 16 and 17

thAugust followed by a field visit on 18 August 2013.

PARTICIPANTS

Around 500 participants representing Community Based Organizations, policy makers, water

professionals, academics from India, Pakistan, Maldives, Nepal, Bhutan, other Asian countries and Sri

Lanka attended the international conference on “water Cooperation for Community Development”, th thheld in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka from 16 August to 18 August 2013. Participants included Hon.

Ministers from Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, Member of Lok Sabha India, Members of Parliament Sri

Lanka, Senior Government Officers, Representatives from Donor Agencies, INGO's, NGO's and CBO

Forums, journalists etc.

VENUE

North Central Provincial Council, Maithripala Senanayaka Mawatha, Anuradhpura

Anuradhapura is selected as the venue for this conference since it is a UNESCO water Heritage site. As

Anuradhapura city was in dry zone rulers constructed large lakes to irrigate paddy lands and also to

supply water to the city and also it had the most complex irrigation systems of the ancient world.

4 5

Introduction to the Conference 5

Conference Programme 7

Welcome Address by A. Abeygunasekara, Secretary 13Ministry of Water Supply & Drainage, Sri Lanka

Address of the Hon. S. M. Ranjith Samarakoon 14Chief Minister North Central Province

Address of the Hon. Basil Rajapaksha 15Minister of Economic Development

Address of the Hon. Chaudhry AbidSher Ali 17State Minister for Water & Power, Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Address of the Hon Dr. (Ms.) Mariyam Shakeela 19Minister of Environment, Maldives

Address of the Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena 22Minister of Water Supply & Drainage, Sri Lanka

Key Note address By Prof. Mohan Munasinghe 24Chairman of Munasinghe Institute of Development, Colombo

Conference Declaration 42

thField Visits - 18 August 2013 44

TECHNICAL SESSIONS

At 8 technical sessions 31 papers of research, experience and best practices presented in 2 parallel

session at North Central Provincial Council Auditorium and Ceylinco Building Auditorium. The sessions

were chaired and Co chaired by distinguished foreign invitees, members of Parliament of Sri Lanka as

well as members of the Themes committee.

Ÿ THEMES

Ÿ Innovative approach to water cooperation

Ÿ Cooperation for poverty alleviation and gender equity

Ÿ Water cooperation to protect ground water resources and catchments

Ÿ Reaching sustainable development through water cooperation

Ÿ Cooperation to reduce effect of climate change and water related disasters

Ÿ Cooperation to reduce water related (CKDu and other diseases) health challenges to community

Ÿ Challenges for rural water and sanitation sector

Ÿ Institutional arrangements and legal framework for sustainable service delivery

Ÿ Lessons learned and best practices

EXHIBITION

th thAn exhibition was organized near the conference venue, and was held for 03 days from 16 to 18

August 2013. There were about 50 stalls taken by Private Sector Organizations, Banks, Government

Organizations, NGO's, Donors, CBO's ,CBO forums and others to promoting safe water and hygiene,

maintenance equipment for income generation and sustainable applications for drinking water supply

and sanitation facilities.

TECHNICAL VISITS

thThree technical visit option were organized to the delegates on the 3rd day of the conference 18

August 2013. The tours give a chance for the delegate to meet and discuss with the member of the

community based organization on various experiences and issues and experience first hand operation

of a community based water supply scheme. In addition also visit key historic sites, water heritage sites in

and around Anuradhapura were visited by the participants

“Water Cooperation for Community Development”

CONFERENCE PROGRAMME

2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

6 7

TECHNICAL SESSIONS

At 8 technical sessions 31 papers of research, experience and best practices presented in 2 parallel

session at North Central Provincial Council Auditorium and Ceylinco Building Auditorium. The sessions

were chaired and Co chaired by distinguished foreign invitees, members of Parliament of Sri Lanka as

well as members of the Themes committee.

Ÿ THEMES

Ÿ Innovative approach to water cooperation

Ÿ Cooperation for poverty alleviation and gender equity

Ÿ Water cooperation to protect ground water resources and catchments

Ÿ Reaching sustainable development through water cooperation

Ÿ Cooperation to reduce effect of climate change and water related disasters

Ÿ Cooperation to reduce water related (CKDu and other diseases) health challenges to community

Ÿ Challenges for rural water and sanitation sector

Ÿ Institutional arrangements and legal framework for sustainable service delivery

Ÿ Lessons learned and best practices

EXHIBITION

th thAn exhibition was organized near the conference venue, and was held for 03 days from 16 to 18

August 2013. There were about 50 stalls taken by Private Sector Organizations, Banks, Government

Organizations, NGO's, Donors, CBO's ,CBO forums and others to promoting safe water and hygiene,

maintenance equipment for income generation and sustainable applications for drinking water supply

and sanitation facilities.

TECHNICAL VISITS

thThree technical visit option were organized to the delegates on the 3rd day of the conference 18

August 2013. The tours give a chance for the delegate to meet and discuss with the member of the

community based organization on various experiences and issues and experience first hand operation

of a community based water supply scheme. In addition also visit key historic sites, water heritage sites in

and around Anuradhapura were visited by the participants

“Water Cooperation for Community Development”

CONFERENCE PROGRAMME

2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

6 7

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

8 9

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

8 9

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

10 11

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

10 11

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

Hon Ministers, Distinguish Guests ,Ladies & Gentlemen

It is a great honor and privilege to get this opportunity to thank you for your

presence at this conference, and to warmly welcome you on behalf on the Ministry

of Water Supply & Drainage, National Water Supply and Drainage Boards and the

Lanka Rainwater Forum.

Hon. Minister of Water Supply and Drainage was very keen to have this conference

prior to the World Water Forum, which is scheduled to be held next year, to share

our almost 18 years of experience in handing community water supply and

sanitation projects with those in the region and outside.

The conference will provide an excellent opportunity for sharing knowledge, strategies, experience and

best practices among us in the region as well as outside, so that we could take stock of the current status

and plan out our future activities.

I believe it is important to briefly touch upon our experience in implementing community water supply

and sanitation projects. Over the years we have implemented a number of community water supply

projects applying the “Consultation and participation (C &P) “approach. Projects were designed to

achieve the set objectives by integrating safe drinking water, basic sanitation, hygiene education,

environmental programs and diversifying community activities to socio economic and cultural fields.

These projects blend well with the development policy framework of the government. “Mahinda

Chinthana”, Vision for the future, which places emphasis on reducing rural- urban imbalances through

regionally focused pro- poor, pro-growth development initiatives.

Under these projects, apart from sharing part of the cost, the communities carried out the physical

construction of facilities through Community Based Organisation (CBOs) formed within the

community under the direction and support of this Ministry. These projects have benefited over three

million people who are living in remote rural areas of the country. There are over 3500 CBO's covering

approximately 600,000 families formed under the CWSSP. The CBOs and the other stake holders are

represented at this conference. The outcome of this conference well definitely have a favorable impact

on them as we have reached the stage where completed facilities are to be passed over the respective

CBOs for them to manage, maintain and sustain them.

As you would observe, the programme prepared for the conference, which has already been circulated,

cover a wide spectrum of water and sanitation sector related topics. We have with us today Hon.

Ministers, government officers, representatives from Donor Countries and NGOs, eminent water

experts, professionals and academics, we will be having deliberations for three days, where I am sure we

will get the unique opportunity to share experience and learn from best practices and replicate them

wherever possible in the future.

It is also relevant to mention that Sri Lanka is totally committed to achieving The Millennium

Development Goal set for the water and sanitation sector. Our efforts are directed to provide access to

safe drinking water to 85% of the population by 2015 and 100% by the year 2025.

I do not intend to take further time as we have to go through a tight schedule within these three days. I

hope and wish that we will have a successful and productive conference.

In conclusion I would like to wish our foreign guests a pleasant and enjoyable stay in Sri Lanka.

Welcome Address by A. Abeygunasekara, SecretaryMinistry of Water Supply & Drainage, Sri Lanka

12 13

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

Hon Ministers, Distinguish Guests ,Ladies & Gentlemen

It is a great honor and privilege to get this opportunity to thank you for your

presence at this conference, and to warmly welcome you on behalf on the Ministry

of Water Supply & Drainage, National Water Supply and Drainage Boards and the

Lanka Rainwater Forum.

Hon. Minister of Water Supply and Drainage was very keen to have this conference

prior to the World Water Forum, which is scheduled to be held next year, to share

our almost 18 years of experience in handing community water supply and

sanitation projects with those in the region and outside.

The conference will provide an excellent opportunity for sharing knowledge, strategies, experience and

best practices among us in the region as well as outside, so that we could take stock of the current status

and plan out our future activities.

I believe it is important to briefly touch upon our experience in implementing community water supply

and sanitation projects. Over the years we have implemented a number of community water supply

projects applying the “Consultation and participation (C &P) “approach. Projects were designed to

achieve the set objectives by integrating safe drinking water, basic sanitation, hygiene education,

environmental programs and diversifying community activities to socio economic and cultural fields.

These projects blend well with the development policy framework of the government. “Mahinda

Chinthana”, Vision for the future, which places emphasis on reducing rural- urban imbalances through

regionally focused pro- poor, pro-growth development initiatives.

Under these projects, apart from sharing part of the cost, the communities carried out the physical

construction of facilities through Community Based Organisation (CBOs) formed within the

community under the direction and support of this Ministry. These projects have benefited over three

million people who are living in remote rural areas of the country. There are over 3500 CBO's covering

approximately 600,000 families formed under the CWSSP. The CBOs and the other stake holders are

represented at this conference. The outcome of this conference well definitely have a favorable impact

on them as we have reached the stage where completed facilities are to be passed over the respective

CBOs for them to manage, maintain and sustain them.

As you would observe, the programme prepared for the conference, which has already been circulated,

cover a wide spectrum of water and sanitation sector related topics. We have with us today Hon.

Ministers, government officers, representatives from Donor Countries and NGOs, eminent water

experts, professionals and academics, we will be having deliberations for three days, where I am sure we

will get the unique opportunity to share experience and learn from best practices and replicate them

wherever possible in the future.

It is also relevant to mention that Sri Lanka is totally committed to achieving The Millennium

Development Goal set for the water and sanitation sector. Our efforts are directed to provide access to

safe drinking water to 85% of the population by 2015 and 100% by the year 2025.

I do not intend to take further time as we have to go through a tight schedule within these three days. I

hope and wish that we will have a successful and productive conference.

In conclusion I would like to wish our foreign guests a pleasant and enjoyable stay in Sri Lanka.

Welcome Address by A. Abeygunasekara, SecretaryMinistry of Water Supply & Drainage, Sri Lanka

12 13

As the chief Minister of the North Central Province I greatly value that the 2nd

International Conference on Community water services is held in Anuradhapura. I

believe that the historical value of the North Central Province will be emphasized.

The people of North central province face difficulty obtaining clean drinking water.

Due to not receiving clean drinking water the community face health problems. It is

timely that this conference is held at this time when people of North Central

Province face the problem of Chronic Kidney Disease.

To provide clean drinking water to the community, there are number of community

water schemes managed by the consumers. They provide huge service to the community voluntary or

with a small salary.

I believe that this conference will provide a platform for those who are operating community water

supply schemes to increase the knowledge and exchange of experience with foreign participants.

Specially through the leadership of the HE the President many giant development programs such as

electricity, road development, housing, agriculture and religious development and all other sector

development is implemented in this area at the moment.

I request all Community Base Organization representatives to make use of this opportunity to develop

their community water projects for the development of the community.

I would like to express my gratitude to the chief guest of this conference, Minister of Economic

Development Hon Basil Rajapaksha, the designer of the drive to increase the economic status of the

people of the country and to the Minister for Water Supply & Drainage Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena who

decide to hold the conference in the North Central province, also to all foreign ministers, Ministers,

MP's, Pradeshiya Sabha and Palath Sabaha, Officers, CBO members who came to participate in this event.

Wish you all the blessings of the triple gem.

Today, 8 countries, including Sri Lanka have joined to organizing this conference on

Water Cooperation. I wish to thank Hon Minister Dinesh Gunawardena minister of

water Supply & Drainage as well as the organising committee for inviting me to this

important Conference. This conference on Water Cooperation has been held for

the second time, last year it was held in Kandy and today it's held in Anuradhpura in

the Central Province of Sri Lanka, Rajarata the place of the first kingdom of Sri Lanka.

The theme of the conference as well as that it is held in Anuradhapura is very

important.

We know that Sri Lankans are very closely associated with water. Our culture shows a lot of respect to

water. When we see a pot full of water we consider it a good sign. Also at different important events in

our lives, we use the water referred to as 'Paan'. When people get married the couple hold hands

together and water is poured over their hands to confirm their marriage. Before we adopted British

customs marriages were confirmed by this deed. As Buddhist we value 'Pirith Paan' which is used to

evoke protection in our culture. Also when we want to give blessing to dead persons we use Pirith

Paane.

Therefore both culturally and religiously our country has close association with water. Also our

economy and in building our nation through our ancient irrigation schemes we have been leader as a

nation. Not only during Anuradhpura and Polonnaruwa period but also during Ruhuna Magama period

our country has been at the helm for irrigation, industry, water conservation and management. That is

why, wewe and dagaba is used to identify a village. The idea was that all villages has to have a wewa,

dagamba and a temple. Therefore, water could not be separated from our nation and our culture. Also

we have developed our nation through this concept. Also you all know since the British ruled our

country , especially after the Uva Wellassa battle, they wanted to take away our dignity our national

pride. For this purpose they selected water, they knew as long as there is water in our wewa or tanks,

they won't be able to rule over us. Therefore they took action to destroy all wewe banks. In places such

as Uva Wellassa where there were 100,000 wewa's which were turned into desolate and forest areas.

When we want to repair and reconstruct these tanks we now have to face new problems and new

challenges. We know from the H.E. President's vision for the future, as long as we are self-sufficient in

rice, national economic development is close at hand. Because of certain illegal steps taken without long

term thinking we are facing new problems. Our water sources have been destroyed at certain periods.

Also due to certain chemicals our ground water has been made unclean. Due to human action,

environmental destruction our water, specially the ground water certain problems have emerged.

Specially where industries using different products with new technologies we have to face problems.

We have to solve these problems with community cooperation. If the decision are taken by one party

only they can be harmful or unbeneficial.

To us water co-operation is not a new thing. We know , especially as farmers of Anuradhpura we have

managed our water with cooperation from ancient times. We know before the start of the 'Kanna' we

gather and clear the 'Aga welli'. During the dry season to remove the sediment from the tanks by Katti

Kapima. Also everything was done by a appointed person by the farmers with cooperation of others.

Although later in Kanna meeting was held legally, all the time water cooperation or taking decision

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

Address of the Hon. Basil Rajapaksha Minister of Economic Development

Address of the Hon. S. M. Ranjith Samarakoon Chief Minister North Central Province

14 15

As the chief Minister of the North Central Province I greatly value that the 2nd

International Conference on Community water services is held in Anuradhapura. I

believe that the historical value of the North Central Province will be emphasized.

The people of North central province face difficulty obtaining clean drinking water.

Due to not receiving clean drinking water the community face health problems. It is

timely that this conference is held at this time when people of North Central

Province face the problem of Chronic Kidney Disease.

To provide clean drinking water to the community, there are number of community

water schemes managed by the consumers. They provide huge service to the community voluntary or

with a small salary.

I believe that this conference will provide a platform for those who are operating community water

supply schemes to increase the knowledge and exchange of experience with foreign participants.

Specially through the leadership of the HE the President many giant development programs such as

electricity, road development, housing, agriculture and religious development and all other sector

development is implemented in this area at the moment.

I request all Community Base Organization representatives to make use of this opportunity to develop

their community water projects for the development of the community.

I would like to express my gratitude to the chief guest of this conference, Minister of Economic

Development Hon Basil Rajapaksha, the designer of the drive to increase the economic status of the

people of the country and to the Minister for Water Supply & Drainage Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena who

decide to hold the conference in the North Central province, also to all foreign ministers, Ministers,

MP's, Pradeshiya Sabha and Palath Sabaha, Officers, CBO members who came to participate in this event.

Wish you all the blessings of the triple gem.

Today, 8 countries, including Sri Lanka have joined to organizing this conference on

Water Cooperation. I wish to thank Hon Minister Dinesh Gunawardena minister of

water Supply & Drainage as well as the organising committee for inviting me to this

important Conference. This conference on Water Cooperation has been held for

the second time, last year it was held in Kandy and today it's held in Anuradhpura in

the Central Province of Sri Lanka, Rajarata the place of the first kingdom of Sri Lanka.

The theme of the conference as well as that it is held in Anuradhapura is very

important.

We know that Sri Lankans are very closely associated with water. Our culture shows a lot of respect to

water. When we see a pot full of water we consider it a good sign. Also at different important events in

our lives, we use the water referred to as 'Paan'. When people get married the couple hold hands

together and water is poured over their hands to confirm their marriage. Before we adopted British

customs marriages were confirmed by this deed. As Buddhist we value 'Pirith Paan' which is used to

evoke protection in our culture. Also when we want to give blessing to dead persons we use Pirith

Paane.

Therefore both culturally and religiously our country has close association with water. Also our

economy and in building our nation through our ancient irrigation schemes we have been leader as a

nation. Not only during Anuradhpura and Polonnaruwa period but also during Ruhuna Magama period

our country has been at the helm for irrigation, industry, water conservation and management. That is

why, wewe and dagaba is used to identify a village. The idea was that all villages has to have a wewa,

dagamba and a temple. Therefore, water could not be separated from our nation and our culture. Also

we have developed our nation through this concept. Also you all know since the British ruled our

country , especially after the Uva Wellassa battle, they wanted to take away our dignity our national

pride. For this purpose they selected water, they knew as long as there is water in our wewa or tanks,

they won't be able to rule over us. Therefore they took action to destroy all wewe banks. In places such

as Uva Wellassa where there were 100,000 wewa's which were turned into desolate and forest areas.

When we want to repair and reconstruct these tanks we now have to face new problems and new

challenges. We know from the H.E. President's vision for the future, as long as we are self-sufficient in

rice, national economic development is close at hand. Because of certain illegal steps taken without long

term thinking we are facing new problems. Our water sources have been destroyed at certain periods.

Also due to certain chemicals our ground water has been made unclean. Due to human action,

environmental destruction our water, specially the ground water certain problems have emerged.

Specially where industries using different products with new technologies we have to face problems.

We have to solve these problems with community cooperation. If the decision are taken by one party

only they can be harmful or unbeneficial.

To us water co-operation is not a new thing. We know , especially as farmers of Anuradhpura we have

managed our water with cooperation from ancient times. We know before the start of the 'Kanna' we

gather and clear the 'Aga welli'. During the dry season to remove the sediment from the tanks by Katti

Kapima. Also everything was done by a appointed person by the farmers with cooperation of others.

Although later in Kanna meeting was held legally, all the time water cooperation or taking decision

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

Address of the Hon. Basil Rajapaksha Minister of Economic Development

Address of the Hon. S. M. Ranjith Samarakoon Chief Minister North Central Province

14 15

together for managing water was made. Also it has been recorded in history that even harvesting was

done united. There were also some strict laws for that. You all know in ancient chronicles when a

provincial leader breaks the law, they were subjected to punishment. Even mayors were punished those

days.

Thus we have managed our water with strict discipline. That is why today's theme of the conference is

very important to the North Central Province and Anuradhpura. Because there are 96 community

water projects in Anuradhapura district alone. Some are functioning very well. H.E President has given

one water supply scheme to Anuradhpura North aided by Japanese funds and another to Anuradhpura

south aided by Chines government signed during his recent visit to China. I am sure these will be

implemented in a very short time with the leadership of the Minister of Water Supply. We hope that

these will not deviate from the Community Water Scheme, the concept of the Hon. Minister Dinesh

Gunawardena. It is the hope of this ministry that participation of the community will strengthen these

schemes. I won't talk longer than this. Today through these special sessions I hope you will discuss how

can be protect our water resources can be provided, prevent ground water getting contaminated and

how we can conserve this water. How we can use and distribute the water for different use,

economically, for drinking and other uses. I hope this conference will be useful for making decisions by

sitting together and discussing and sharing and exchange of information. I hope this conference will be

useful for people from this district from Sri Lanka and also for those in region. I wish you successful

future.

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

Address of the Hon. Chaudhry AbidSher AliState Minister for Water & Power, Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Pakistan depends on water from its rivers, mainly for agriculture and 95% of the

hydro power generation. It has the highest continuous irrigation system in the

world, which covers an area of 42 million acres. Indus river and western tributaries

on average bring about 142 Million acre ft of water annually and average annual

withdraw o f 104 Million acre ft. The system has 3 major reservoirs, 90 barrages, 12

inter river canals, 45 independent irrigation canal systems and more than 100,000

water courses. Total length of the canal system is about 64,000 km. System also

utilizes estimated 42 million acre ft of ground water pumped to more than 600,000

persons mostly private sector to supplement supply. Despite having such extensive water resources in

Pakistan with the increase in population and sedimentation of reservoirs the country is facing severe

water shortages. The per capita water availability was 5658 liters in 1951, which is now 1038 liters and

estimated to further decline to 830 liters by 2025. The minimum water requirement for a water

shortage country is 1003 liters. Due to intensive sedimentation all the 3 storages namely Tarbela,

Mangla, Treshma is rapidly losing their capacity.

By the year 2025 this storage will loose about 37% which is 627 million acre ft of the capacity which

means lose of one mega storage project. Pakistan is a country built around water of Indus river basin.

The water resources of the country is under grave and growing stress from the expanding population

and demand of the growing city and industry increasing scarcity from the degrading of water quality,

climate change and above all inability to develop adequate platform for modern infrastructure.

Pakistan stands at the cross road. To continue business as usual will compromise food, energy and

economic security with ominous implication for poverty and conflicts. Pakistan in the given

circumstances plan to double the value of its agriculture outputs. Thus assuring food and economic

security making it original agriculture power house. Triple the output of clean, climate friendly and low

cost hydropower, reduce half the area effected adverse flood and reduce human and economic impact

of such events and provide all urban residents with continuous and safe water supply by self-financing

utilities and treat all industrial and substantial portion of the domestic waste water thus improving the

health of the city dwellers and of the rural communities by the large flow of untreated wastage . The

major challenges faced by the water sector are, number one inadequate storage capacity and

sedimentation of the reservoirs. Second, extensive seepage losses in the irrigation system, third absence

of the utilization flood water. Fourth, inadequate operation and maintenance of irrigation system,

excessive ground water pumping without ground water recharge, disposal of effluent , lack of private

sector participation, sub optimal and low productivity of water.

To combat these issues some of the initiatives undertaken by the government of Pakistan are

construction of new storage reservoirs, water conservation through canal lining, and utilization of

water of torrential rain which causes devastation and mostly waste. Rehabilitation of irrigation

infrastructure which is the largest integrated system of the world. Treatment of the effluent water for

human consumption, introduction of high efficient irrigation system and improvement institutional

infrastructure.

Since for several years, global climate change has impacted gigantic challenges to the global

communities. Many climate change induced disaster such as glacial melt, massive landslides, cloud bursts,

16 17

together for managing water was made. Also it has been recorded in history that even harvesting was

done united. There were also some strict laws for that. You all know in ancient chronicles when a

provincial leader breaks the law, they were subjected to punishment. Even mayors were punished those

days.

Thus we have managed our water with strict discipline. That is why today's theme of the conference is

very important to the North Central Province and Anuradhpura. Because there are 96 community

water projects in Anuradhapura district alone. Some are functioning very well. H.E President has given

one water supply scheme to Anuradhpura North aided by Japanese funds and another to Anuradhpura

south aided by Chines government signed during his recent visit to China. I am sure these will be

implemented in a very short time with the leadership of the Minister of Water Supply. We hope that

these will not deviate from the Community Water Scheme, the concept of the Hon. Minister Dinesh

Gunawardena. It is the hope of this ministry that participation of the community will strengthen these

schemes. I won't talk longer than this. Today through these special sessions I hope you will discuss how

can be protect our water resources can be provided, prevent ground water getting contaminated and

how we can conserve this water. How we can use and distribute the water for different use,

economically, for drinking and other uses. I hope this conference will be useful for making decisions by

sitting together and discussing and sharing and exchange of information. I hope this conference will be

useful for people from this district from Sri Lanka and also for those in region. I wish you successful

future.

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

Address of the Hon. Chaudhry AbidSher AliState Minister for Water & Power, Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Pakistan depends on water from its rivers, mainly for agriculture and 95% of the

hydro power generation. It has the highest continuous irrigation system in the

world, which covers an area of 42 million acres. Indus river and western tributaries

on average bring about 142 Million acre ft of water annually and average annual

withdraw o f 104 Million acre ft. The system has 3 major reservoirs, 90 barrages, 12

inter river canals, 45 independent irrigation canal systems and more than 100,000

water courses. Total length of the canal system is about 64,000 km. System also

utilizes estimated 42 million acre ft of ground water pumped to more than 600,000

persons mostly private sector to supplement supply. Despite having such extensive water resources in

Pakistan with the increase in population and sedimentation of reservoirs the country is facing severe

water shortages. The per capita water availability was 5658 liters in 1951, which is now 1038 liters and

estimated to further decline to 830 liters by 2025. The minimum water requirement for a water

shortage country is 1003 liters. Due to intensive sedimentation all the 3 storages namely Tarbela,

Mangla, Treshma is rapidly losing their capacity.

By the year 2025 this storage will loose about 37% which is 627 million acre ft of the capacity which

means lose of one mega storage project. Pakistan is a country built around water of Indus river basin.

The water resources of the country is under grave and growing stress from the expanding population

and demand of the growing city and industry increasing scarcity from the degrading of water quality,

climate change and above all inability to develop adequate platform for modern infrastructure.

Pakistan stands at the cross road. To continue business as usual will compromise food, energy and

economic security with ominous implication for poverty and conflicts. Pakistan in the given

circumstances plan to double the value of its agriculture outputs. Thus assuring food and economic

security making it original agriculture power house. Triple the output of clean, climate friendly and low

cost hydropower, reduce half the area effected adverse flood and reduce human and economic impact

of such events and provide all urban residents with continuous and safe water supply by self-financing

utilities and treat all industrial and substantial portion of the domestic waste water thus improving the

health of the city dwellers and of the rural communities by the large flow of untreated wastage . The

major challenges faced by the water sector are, number one inadequate storage capacity and

sedimentation of the reservoirs. Second, extensive seepage losses in the irrigation system, third absence

of the utilization flood water. Fourth, inadequate operation and maintenance of irrigation system,

excessive ground water pumping without ground water recharge, disposal of effluent , lack of private

sector participation, sub optimal and low productivity of water.

To combat these issues some of the initiatives undertaken by the government of Pakistan are

construction of new storage reservoirs, water conservation through canal lining, and utilization of

water of torrential rain which causes devastation and mostly waste. Rehabilitation of irrigation

infrastructure which is the largest integrated system of the world. Treatment of the effluent water for

human consumption, introduction of high efficient irrigation system and improvement institutional

infrastructure.

Since for several years, global climate change has impacted gigantic challenges to the global

communities. Many climate change induced disaster such as glacial melt, massive landslides, cloud bursts,

16 17

erratic and extreme weather has also emerged. Their intensity and frequency is also rapidly increasing.

Like many part of the world, Pakistan is among one of the adversely effected countries by the climate

change impact. Thisis evident from the devastating river floods of 2010 and flood due to torrential rain

in 2011 and 2012. Experience in Pakistan which lose 1000 of lives and damage to private and public

infrastructure attract the attention of global community for launching and rehabilitation and recovery

program in the country.

Pakistan is endeavored with plenty of natural resources including water resource. Beside water supply

for irrigation water resources are also utilized to provide electricity. Natural water resources have high

potential for hydro power generation. As estimated 60,000 Megawatt which can be economically

harnessed. Out of this hydro power potential only 11% has been developed so far. Hydro power is the

best available option in the recent scenario of meeting the projected future energy demand of our

country as it is sustainable, reliable, renewable, clean low cost source of energy. It is therefore imperative

to pool all efforts toward development of this untapped hydro power potential without further delay.

Accordingly, there is transition in the policy authority that shifting from development of gas base thermal

power plants with comparatively shorter construction time and low capital investment to hydro power

which is also environmentally friendly. In the end let me express my gratitude to all the participants for

patiently bearing with me through my address.

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

Address of the Hon Dr. (Ms.) Mariyam ShakeelaMinister of Environment, Maldives

Maldives consist of 1190 geographically challenged islands barely a meter above sea

level with only 1% of the territory as land with all facets of lives and livelihoods

almost exclusively depend on our coastal and marine biodiversity achieving

sustainability and green economy is opportunity as well as a challenge for us. We are

among the lowest line and most venerable states to climate changes. Maldives is

resource poor, and therefore almost completely depend on our biodiversity for

total support of our 2 main industry that is fisheries and tourism . Our exports,

employment foreign exchange are all linked to our environment and hence recent

increase in climate events. (slide).

Frequency, intensity and predictability of precipitations, flooding and storms have increased within the

past few years causing extensive damage to infrastructure and water resources. Wide ranging damages

was experienced during the tsunami, recent flooding events and surging oceans which almost

completely contaminated our ground water system. We are therefore forced to use desalination

systems minus any other water resources. First time desalination systems were used to address issues

related to water shortages experienced after the tsunami. Government of Maldives received from

external aids more than 40 desalination plants which were disposed to effected islands along with 2500

liter plastic storage tanks. The desalination plants are installed asa supplementary water supply source

and are used during emergencies and during the dry period. However, at present less than 50% of these

plants are functioning due to financial and technical constraints in the island. Unfortunately we have to

depend heavily for our energy sources which are extremely expensive. As 36% of our GDP is spend on

importing fossil fuel. Therefore electricity generation is extremely high and desalination as you know

depend on electricity. Therefore, due to these reasons we are unable to use desalination completely. So

country has to embark on very aggressive renewable energy program.

While trans boundary movement of pollution contribute to pollution contamination of our rain water

which is actually the only source of potable water for us. Increase salinity of our low line fresh water

lenses and contamination of poorly constructed on-site septic tank s have polluted our ground water

sources. Many islands have fecal contamination level over 100% , therefore this water is not possible to

be used by humans. Left with no choice and financial constraints large portion of people are effected

with the prospect of using contaminated or use desalination water which is extremely expensive. So the

challenge for us is numerous. Provision of safe drinking water and sanitation regarded as basic human

rights for all Maldivians in the new constitution of the country. As population grows standard of living

improves and the demand for safe water and better sanitation facilities are increasing at an alarming

rate. As a country with limited natural resources, challenging geography, dispersion of island population

as well as human, financial constraints providing even basic facilities which are affordable water to the

household and to the country as a whole is a major challenge for us. Toward a sustainable system we

need to re-strategise and reevaluate our strategies.

With increase in pollution and urbanization the demand for water is increasing rapidly while

anthropogenic activity continue to deplete and pollute fresh water resources. Furthermore salt water

intrusion is a major problem for already stressed fresh water aquifers in the island. Thus effecting the soil

and degradation impacting agriculture and terrestrial system and further effecting our water security.

18 19

erratic and extreme weather has also emerged. Their intensity and frequency is also rapidly increasing.

Like many part of the world, Pakistan is among one of the adversely effected countries by the climate

change impact. Thisis evident from the devastating river floods of 2010 and flood due to torrential rain

in 2011 and 2012. Experience in Pakistan which lose 1000 of lives and damage to private and public

infrastructure attract the attention of global community for launching and rehabilitation and recovery

program in the country.

Pakistan is endeavored with plenty of natural resources including water resource. Beside water supply

for irrigation water resources are also utilized to provide electricity. Natural water resources have high

potential for hydro power generation. As estimated 60,000 Megawatt which can be economically

harnessed. Out of this hydro power potential only 11% has been developed so far. Hydro power is the

best available option in the recent scenario of meeting the projected future energy demand of our

country as it is sustainable, reliable, renewable, clean low cost source of energy. It is therefore imperative

to pool all efforts toward development of this untapped hydro power potential without further delay.

Accordingly, there is transition in the policy authority that shifting from development of gas base thermal

power plants with comparatively shorter construction time and low capital investment to hydro power

which is also environmentally friendly. In the end let me express my gratitude to all the participants for

patiently bearing with me through my address.

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

Address of the Hon Dr. (Ms.) Mariyam ShakeelaMinister of Environment, Maldives

Maldives consist of 1190 geographically challenged islands barely a meter above sea

level with only 1% of the territory as land with all facets of lives and livelihoods

almost exclusively depend on our coastal and marine biodiversity achieving

sustainability and green economy is opportunity as well as a challenge for us. We are

among the lowest line and most venerable states to climate changes. Maldives is

resource poor, and therefore almost completely depend on our biodiversity for

total support of our 2 main industry that is fisheries and tourism . Our exports,

employment foreign exchange are all linked to our environment and hence recent

increase in climate events. (slide).

Frequency, intensity and predictability of precipitations, flooding and storms have increased within the

past few years causing extensive damage to infrastructure and water resources. Wide ranging damages

was experienced during the tsunami, recent flooding events and surging oceans which almost

completely contaminated our ground water system. We are therefore forced to use desalination

systems minus any other water resources. First time desalination systems were used to address issues

related to water shortages experienced after the tsunami. Government of Maldives received from

external aids more than 40 desalination plants which were disposed to effected islands along with 2500

liter plastic storage tanks. The desalination plants are installed asa supplementary water supply source

and are used during emergencies and during the dry period. However, at present less than 50% of these

plants are functioning due to financial and technical constraints in the island. Unfortunately we have to

depend heavily for our energy sources which are extremely expensive. As 36% of our GDP is spend on

importing fossil fuel. Therefore electricity generation is extremely high and desalination as you know

depend on electricity. Therefore, due to these reasons we are unable to use desalination completely. So

country has to embark on very aggressive renewable energy program.

While trans boundary movement of pollution contribute to pollution contamination of our rain water

which is actually the only source of potable water for us. Increase salinity of our low line fresh water

lenses and contamination of poorly constructed on-site septic tank s have polluted our ground water

sources. Many islands have fecal contamination level over 100% , therefore this water is not possible to

be used by humans. Left with no choice and financial constraints large portion of people are effected

with the prospect of using contaminated or use desalination water which is extremely expensive. So the

challenge for us is numerous. Provision of safe drinking water and sanitation regarded as basic human

rights for all Maldivians in the new constitution of the country. As population grows standard of living

improves and the demand for safe water and better sanitation facilities are increasing at an alarming

rate. As a country with limited natural resources, challenging geography, dispersion of island population

as well as human, financial constraints providing even basic facilities which are affordable water to the

household and to the country as a whole is a major challenge for us. Toward a sustainable system we

need to re-strategise and reevaluate our strategies.

With increase in pollution and urbanization the demand for water is increasing rapidly while

anthropogenic activity continue to deplete and pollute fresh water resources. Furthermore salt water

intrusion is a major problem for already stressed fresh water aquifers in the island. Thus effecting the soil

and degradation impacting agriculture and terrestrial system and further effecting our water security.

18 19

Every year the demand for desalinated water is increasing during the dry period as well as during

flooding as a result of ocean surges. Transporting desalinated water to the dispersed population has been

a challenge over the years as more islands face problems of water scarcity. Each year over 15% of the

islands face acute drinking water shortages. Last year due to prolonged dry period water has to be

transported to islands at high cost. Water shortage problems exacerbate as the predicted changes in

precipitation has potential impact on rain water harvesting at all atolls. Drinking water shortages during

the dry period is therefore proven to be a significant challenge to atoll people. Approximately 27% of our

budget is spent on water and water relief. Even last year more than 120 islands out the 194 inhabitant

islands water has to be transported. As present throughout the whole country other than tourist

resorts, we have only 30 sewage facilities and 4 desalination pipe water systems. To provide water

network and sanitation facilities to the whole country will cost us in millions. And if climate change

events increase further and if we have drought seasons more than once a year you can imagine how

much it cost us.Nevertheless, this year been a resilient community there is an increase in government

allocation for water supply & sanitation projects. While we have 8 projects under implementation in

different islands over 30 new sewerage projects and 3 water supply projects across the country will be

implemented from using government funds and also using external funds. We are also putting up more

projects also seeking assistance from other international agencies. We all know by building

infrastructure alone will not solve our problem. It is also important to sustain these systems as part of

improving services, hence capacity building, and management of infrastructure for us are of utmost

importance.

Excellency's ladies and gentlemen, addressing the issue of water at global level fragmented over different

organisations, there is a need to make a greater emphasis on water coherence between different

organization to effectively address the issue of energy and climate change. There is also a great need to

integrate water in developmental and sectorial policy such as agriculture and energy policy and find ways

and means to implement it. I strongly believe there will be no human right when we cannot afford basic

human necessities such as water and sanitation. Therefore I strongly call upon everyone to increase the

role of civil society and private sector to improve better coverage on water and sanitation. Access to

clean water is critical and it will intensify as population grows demand increase. It is important to

broaden the prospective and include in the agenda water resources, water quality, water quantity, water

related risk such as flooding. In the light of the post 2015 development agenda that is looming before us I

urge all policy makers to devise strategies to integrate climate change in the post 2015 agenda and align

SDG and MDG's and not view in them in isolation. Issues with water cannot be overlooked nor it can be

looked in isolation with climate change and energy either and also food security. It is integrated with

climate Change and all issues related to that. When the world is fast speeding toward predicted 9 billion

mark and global warming is fast tracking towards the 4 degree world by 2060 along with the melting of

the artic snow for us to increase short live climate pollutants. We are talking of a complexity which will

translate in the social, economic and legal problems with human right consequences. When climate

change protracts two of the human rights, the image that is portrayed is very different from what

emerges from economic statistical, scientific forecast. Human rights protracts increase in poverty and

social depreciation as drought, water contaminations render previously fertile land useless and unfertile

lands. Conflicts over inadequate resources such as land and most importantly water are therefore

predicted to become severe and common.

AS the unanimity of need of urgent action to address climate change grows, there will be masses of

people with claims which will demand response resulting is financial, political , social agenda with

additional human rights consequences. As we approach the post 2015 Developmental Agenda we as

vulnerable islands states need to collaborate to ensure our concerns are taken into consideration. We

need to join together we need to join our hands rather than in isolation. The post 2015 Development

Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals should be more than goals for developing countries, it

should also be goals for developed countries to deliver and ensure that these targets are met. For us the

post 2015 agenda and SDG's are also about meeting the challenges of climate change. As such I call upon

all of us to collaborate once again to ensure that climate change issues surrounding us and taking them

into account during the process. We must take action collectively. Ladies and gentlemen unless we work

together we will never be able to achieve anything , we could find our selves be left behind. And that

should not happen to vulnerable island states. Before I end please allow me to thank the Sri Lankan

government and its people, distinguished minister and his capable staff, all organizers of this event, and

wish them success pushing this initiative forward to facilitate sustainable affordable water for all. I would

also like to take this opportunity as a representative of my country to thank the Sri Lankan Government

and related ministers for the continuous support and assistance that Sri Lanka has been giving to us.

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

20 21

Every year the demand for desalinated water is increasing during the dry period as well as during

flooding as a result of ocean surges. Transporting desalinated water to the dispersed population has been

a challenge over the years as more islands face problems of water scarcity. Each year over 15% of the

islands face acute drinking water shortages. Last year due to prolonged dry period water has to be

transported to islands at high cost. Water shortage problems exacerbate as the predicted changes in

precipitation has potential impact on rain water harvesting at all atolls. Drinking water shortages during

the dry period is therefore proven to be a significant challenge to atoll people. Approximately 27% of our

budget is spent on water and water relief. Even last year more than 120 islands out the 194 inhabitant

islands water has to be transported. As present throughout the whole country other than tourist

resorts, we have only 30 sewage facilities and 4 desalination pipe water systems. To provide water

network and sanitation facilities to the whole country will cost us in millions. And if climate change

events increase further and if we have drought seasons more than once a year you can imagine how

much it cost us.Nevertheless, this year been a resilient community there is an increase in government

allocation for water supply & sanitation projects. While we have 8 projects under implementation in

different islands over 30 new sewerage projects and 3 water supply projects across the country will be

implemented from using government funds and also using external funds. We are also putting up more

projects also seeking assistance from other international agencies. We all know by building

infrastructure alone will not solve our problem. It is also important to sustain these systems as part of

improving services, hence capacity building, and management of infrastructure for us are of utmost

importance.

Excellency's ladies and gentlemen, addressing the issue of water at global level fragmented over different

organisations, there is a need to make a greater emphasis on water coherence between different

organization to effectively address the issue of energy and climate change. There is also a great need to

integrate water in developmental and sectorial policy such as agriculture and energy policy and find ways

and means to implement it. I strongly believe there will be no human right when we cannot afford basic

human necessities such as water and sanitation. Therefore I strongly call upon everyone to increase the

role of civil society and private sector to improve better coverage on water and sanitation. Access to

clean water is critical and it will intensify as population grows demand increase. It is important to

broaden the prospective and include in the agenda water resources, water quality, water quantity, water

related risk such as flooding. In the light of the post 2015 development agenda that is looming before us I

urge all policy makers to devise strategies to integrate climate change in the post 2015 agenda and align

SDG and MDG's and not view in them in isolation. Issues with water cannot be overlooked nor it can be

looked in isolation with climate change and energy either and also food security. It is integrated with

climate Change and all issues related to that. When the world is fast speeding toward predicted 9 billion

mark and global warming is fast tracking towards the 4 degree world by 2060 along with the melting of

the artic snow for us to increase short live climate pollutants. We are talking of a complexity which will

translate in the social, economic and legal problems with human right consequences. When climate

change protracts two of the human rights, the image that is portrayed is very different from what

emerges from economic statistical, scientific forecast. Human rights protracts increase in poverty and

social depreciation as drought, water contaminations render previously fertile land useless and unfertile

lands. Conflicts over inadequate resources such as land and most importantly water are therefore

predicted to become severe and common.

AS the unanimity of need of urgent action to address climate change grows, there will be masses of

people with claims which will demand response resulting is financial, political , social agenda with

additional human rights consequences. As we approach the post 2015 Developmental Agenda we as

vulnerable islands states need to collaborate to ensure our concerns are taken into consideration. We

need to join together we need to join our hands rather than in isolation. The post 2015 Development

Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals should be more than goals for developing countries, it

should also be goals for developed countries to deliver and ensure that these targets are met. For us the

post 2015 agenda and SDG's are also about meeting the challenges of climate change. As such I call upon

all of us to collaborate once again to ensure that climate change issues surrounding us and taking them

into account during the process. We must take action collectively. Ladies and gentlemen unless we work

together we will never be able to achieve anything , we could find our selves be left behind. And that

should not happen to vulnerable island states. Before I end please allow me to thank the Sri Lankan

government and its people, distinguished minister and his capable staff, all organizers of this event, and

wish them success pushing this initiative forward to facilitate sustainable affordable water for all. I would

also like to take this opportunity as a representative of my country to thank the Sri Lankan Government

and related ministers for the continuous support and assistance that Sri Lanka has been giving to us.

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

20 21

Rev Maha Sanga, Rev. Clergy , Chief guest Hon. Basil Rajapaksha

Hon. Ministers, Hon. Chaudhry Abid Sher Ali State Minister for Water & Power

Pakistan, Hon. Dr. (Ms.) Mariyam Shakeela, Minister of Environment, Maldives

Ambassadors, Chief Minister ,Members of parliament P.S members, Members of the

Community organisations, Ladies & Gentlemen

I rise with great pleasure to be greet you at the inauguration of the International

Conference on Water Cooperation for Community Development organised by my

Ministry, NWSDB, National Community Trust and Lanka Rain Water Harvesting Forum.

Sri Lanka's Civilization like many other is based on water. Sri Lanka recognize that water has social,

environmental and cultural values in additional to it's the economic value. Sri Lanka has 103 rivers and

20-30 thousands of tanks. Our ancestors conserved water not only for irrigation and domestic

purposes, but also for conservation of the environment, retention of soil moisture and maintenance of

the water table. The technology used by our ancient rulers baffles the engineers of today.

This conference is held in our ancient city of Anuradhapura, epicentre of Sri Lanka's Hydraulic system

and cradle of our civilization. It is a follow up of the 1st International Conference on Community &

Water Services held in Kandy, Sri Lanka in 2011. The aim of the conference is to provide a platform for

sharing knowledge, strategies and best practices among all stakeholders which will support to improve

community water schemes in Sri Lanka as well as around the world.

Water is a shared resources and its management needs to take into account a wide variety of conflicting

interests. Hence, cooperation among the stakeholders is important. There are two key water

management issues. Firstly, is the protection of water sources and water both in terms of quantity and

quality? Second is making access to water easier for the communities. Cooperation among various

stakeholders is crucial in these issues. Therefore it is very timely UN has declared the theme for this year

“Water for Cooperation”.

This years UN General Assemble developed a road map towards 2015 development agenda this

conference contribution will also take our message of community participation in water supply toward

sustainable global development.

Like in many countries, rain is the main source of water in Sri Lanka. Rapid urbanization, pollution and

climate change threaten the resource while demands for water are increasing in order to satisfy the

needs of a growing world population (100 years ago 1 billion now at over seven billion people, in Sri

Lanka population has doubled in the last 50 years, is now at 21 million people), for food production,

environment, ( Forest& Soil), energy, industrial and domestic uses.

Water users are at odds and a mutually acceptable solution is necessary. Effective water management

requires cooperation among the numerous stakeholders. Environmental degradation and water quality

degradation and depletion of water resources are affecting cost of new development. Sixty years ago Sri

Lanka had over 42% forest coverage, now it is around 28%.

The quality of water available to the community is important from the point of view of the health of the

people. Chronic Renal Failure ( CRF), also called Chronic Kidney Disease of unknown etiology (CKDu)

is widespread in the North Central, part of North Western and Uva provinces. This disease is considered

to be caused by polluted/contaminated water and is reported to have affected nearly 30,000 inhabitants

among the farming community in the three provinces indicated above. There are many organizations

which are responsible to maintain the quality of water. Closer collaboration/cooperation among these

organizations, private sector and civil society is important in supplying water of good quality

Following Mahinda Chinthanaya, a new approach was proposed by Ministry of Water Supply&Drainage

to establish a Sri Lanka National Community Water Trust, which was approved by his Excellency the

President. National Community Water Trust is unique set up represented by my Ministry, NWSDB,

Treasury and Community Based Organisations. One of the main task of the Trust to rehabilitate and

protect water supply systems of 3060 community water supply by CBO's in 15 districts in Sri Lanka.

These water supply schemes use village tanks, protected and unprotected shallow wells, deep wells with

hand pumps or motorized pumps. Rain water harvesting is also promoted, of which there are more than

42,000 household systems in the country.

I am proud to announce that Sri Lanka leads the region in meeting the MDG for water and Sanitation.

We have been able to achieve 84.1 % access for improved water supply and over 88% for sanitation.

National Water Supply & Drainage Board (NWSDB) the main agency responsible for water supply in Sri

Lanka has also achieved 42.4% pipe born water supply with schemes in rural and urban sector in all

province of Sri Lanka.

Rural communities living in areas where there is no pipe water systems often have to undergo many

hardship to obtain water. Women are most affected from lack of water since they are responsibility in

ensuring household water supply. Our Government's strategy is to involve the community in the

decision making process from the planning, design and construction of water supply schemes up to the

operation and maintenance..

I wish the Conference success and welcome all the attending Ministers representing SAARC Countries

and delegates from other countries and Sri Lanka to the Conference.

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

Address of the Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena Minister of Water Supply & Drainage, Sri Lanka

22 23

Rev Maha Sanga, Rev. Clergy , Chief guest Hon. Basil Rajapaksha

Hon. Ministers, Hon. Chaudhry Abid Sher Ali State Minister for Water & Power

Pakistan, Hon. Dr. (Ms.) Mariyam Shakeela, Minister of Environment, Maldives

Ambassadors, Chief Minister ,Members of parliament P.S members, Members of the

Community organisations, Ladies & Gentlemen

I rise with great pleasure to be greet you at the inauguration of the International

Conference on Water Cooperation for Community Development organised by my

Ministry, NWSDB, National Community Trust and Lanka Rain Water Harvesting Forum.

Sri Lanka's Civilization like many other is based on water. Sri Lanka recognize that water has social,

environmental and cultural values in additional to it's the economic value. Sri Lanka has 103 rivers and

20-30 thousands of tanks. Our ancestors conserved water not only for irrigation and domestic

purposes, but also for conservation of the environment, retention of soil moisture and maintenance of

the water table. The technology used by our ancient rulers baffles the engineers of today.

This conference is held in our ancient city of Anuradhapura, epicentre of Sri Lanka's Hydraulic system

and cradle of our civilization. It is a follow up of the 1st International Conference on Community &

Water Services held in Kandy, Sri Lanka in 2011. The aim of the conference is to provide a platform for

sharing knowledge, strategies and best practices among all stakeholders which will support to improve

community water schemes in Sri Lanka as well as around the world.

Water is a shared resources and its management needs to take into account a wide variety of conflicting

interests. Hence, cooperation among the stakeholders is important. There are two key water

management issues. Firstly, is the protection of water sources and water both in terms of quantity and

quality? Second is making access to water easier for the communities. Cooperation among various

stakeholders is crucial in these issues. Therefore it is very timely UN has declared the theme for this year

“Water for Cooperation”.

This years UN General Assemble developed a road map towards 2015 development agenda this

conference contribution will also take our message of community participation in water supply toward

sustainable global development.

Like in many countries, rain is the main source of water in Sri Lanka. Rapid urbanization, pollution and

climate change threaten the resource while demands for water are increasing in order to satisfy the

needs of a growing world population (100 years ago 1 billion now at over seven billion people, in Sri

Lanka population has doubled in the last 50 years, is now at 21 million people), for food production,

environment, ( Forest& Soil), energy, industrial and domestic uses.

Water users are at odds and a mutually acceptable solution is necessary. Effective water management

requires cooperation among the numerous stakeholders. Environmental degradation and water quality

degradation and depletion of water resources are affecting cost of new development. Sixty years ago Sri

Lanka had over 42% forest coverage, now it is around 28%.

The quality of water available to the community is important from the point of view of the health of the

people. Chronic Renal Failure ( CRF), also called Chronic Kidney Disease of unknown etiology (CKDu)

is widespread in the North Central, part of North Western and Uva provinces. This disease is considered

to be caused by polluted/contaminated water and is reported to have affected nearly 30,000 inhabitants

among the farming community in the three provinces indicated above. There are many organizations

which are responsible to maintain the quality of water. Closer collaboration/cooperation among these

organizations, private sector and civil society is important in supplying water of good quality

Following Mahinda Chinthanaya, a new approach was proposed by Ministry of Water Supply&Drainage

to establish a Sri Lanka National Community Water Trust, which was approved by his Excellency the

President. National Community Water Trust is unique set up represented by my Ministry, NWSDB,

Treasury and Community Based Organisations. One of the main task of the Trust to rehabilitate and

protect water supply systems of 3060 community water supply by CBO's in 15 districts in Sri Lanka.

These water supply schemes use village tanks, protected and unprotected shallow wells, deep wells with

hand pumps or motorized pumps. Rain water harvesting is also promoted, of which there are more than

42,000 household systems in the country.

I am proud to announce that Sri Lanka leads the region in meeting the MDG for water and Sanitation.

We have been able to achieve 84.1 % access for improved water supply and over 88% for sanitation.

National Water Supply & Drainage Board (NWSDB) the main agency responsible for water supply in Sri

Lanka has also achieved 42.4% pipe born water supply with schemes in rural and urban sector in all

province of Sri Lanka.

Rural communities living in areas where there is no pipe water systems often have to undergo many

hardship to obtain water. Women are most affected from lack of water since they are responsibility in

ensuring household water supply. Our Government's strategy is to involve the community in the

decision making process from the planning, design and construction of water supply schemes up to the

operation and maintenance..

I wish the Conference success and welcome all the attending Ministers representing SAARC Countries

and delegates from other countries and Sri Lanka to the Conference.

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

Address of the Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena Minister of Water Supply & Drainage, Sri Lanka

22 23

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

Key Note address By Prof. Mohan MunasingheChairman of Munasinghe Institute of Development, Colombo

24 25

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

Key Note address By Prof. Mohan MunasingheChairman of Munasinghe Institute of Development, Colombo

24 25

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

26 27

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

26 27

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

28 29

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

28 29

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

30 31

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

30 31

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

32 33

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

32 33

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

34 35

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

34 35

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

36 37

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

36 37

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

38 39

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

38 39

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

40 41

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

40 41

Around 500 participants representing Community Based Organizations, policy makers, water

professionals, academics from India, Pakistan, Maldives, Nepal, Bhutan, other Asian countries and Sri

Lanka attended the international conference on “Water Cooperation For Community th thDevelopment”, held in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka from 16 August to 18 August 2013. At this conference,

the participants discussed different aspects of water cooperation for community development in Sri

Lanka and the other participating countries in the region.

The conference played a key role in sharing of experience, knowledge and best practices for water

cooperation for community development among the participating countries. It surfaced the importance

of having an effective cooperation among the numerous organizations for meeting the water needs of

the people. Among the issues discussed and realized are the positive role played by the community

service organizations in supply of water to enhance women empowerment, reduced poverty, facilitate

environmental protection, water quality improvement and improve technological inputs.

The conference recognized the model of the newly formed National Community Water Trust (NCWT)

consisting of unique combination of members from Ministry of Water Supply & Drainage, National

Water Supply & Drainage Board, Community Based Organisation (Government - Water Board - CBO)

and technical support group is a needy and appropriate measure to support and empower the

Community Based Organizations to carry out water and sanitation services.

The participants strongly recommend that initiatives taken by the participating organizations, other

institutions, governments and community based organizations in relation to the following be continued.

ü Recognition of the need to share knowledge , best practices and lessons learn at regional and

International levels.

ü Promote Peoples' participation as a strategy, in achieving social, MDG and national goals set for water

and sanitation. Recognize the voluntary service done by the community based organizations and

their silent contribution to development. Make strategies to empower them further by Improve the

capacities of the office bearers of Community Based Organizations (CBOs ) by providing training on

effective communication, new technologies, aiming at better intra and interrelationship among

them. Diversify activities of CBOs to sustain the enthusiasm of its members

ü Formulation of a long term plan to address the shortage of water availability in dry areas such as

Jaffna Peninsula, converting lagoons to fresh water lakes.

ü Promotion of rainwater harvesting (RWH) to be considered as one of the solutions to water

shortage and to make RWH to be made more socially acceptable through effective beneficiary

education.

ü Building of child friendly water and sanitation units in schools to be continued more extensively.

ü Due consideration given to gender equity in achieving sustainability of rural water supply and

sanitation schemes.

ü Establish a National Committee dedicated for control/prevention of Chronic Kidney Disease of

unknown etiology where toxic water being suspected a main causative and to strengthen the

implementation of short term solutions.

ü Recognize water shed boundaries, take appropriate action to improve water quality and blend old

and new technologies future for rural water schemes. Traditional knowledge and know how is

respected and realized when introducing new laws, rules or practices on its present day to ensure

social integration and environment friendly approaches in water supply projects.

th17 August 2013Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

National Steering Committee, Ministry of Water Supply & Drainage, National Community Water Trust,

National Water supply & Drainage Board, Lanka Rain Water Harvesting Forum

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

CONFERENCE DECLARATION

42 43

Around 500 participants representing Community Based Organizations, policy makers, water

professionals, academics from India, Pakistan, Maldives, Nepal, Bhutan, other Asian countries and Sri

Lanka attended the international conference on “Water Cooperation For Community th thDevelopment”, held in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka from 16 August to 18 August 2013. At this conference,

the participants discussed different aspects of water cooperation for community development in Sri

Lanka and the other participating countries in the region.

The conference played a key role in sharing of experience, knowledge and best practices for water

cooperation for community development among the participating countries. It surfaced the importance

of having an effective cooperation among the numerous organizations for meeting the water needs of

the people. Among the issues discussed and realized are the positive role played by the community

service organizations in supply of water to enhance women empowerment, reduced poverty, facilitate

environmental protection, water quality improvement and improve technological inputs.

The conference recognized the model of the newly formed National Community Water Trust (NCWT)

consisting of unique combination of members from Ministry of Water Supply & Drainage, National

Water Supply & Drainage Board, Community Based Organisation (Government - Water Board - CBO)

and technical support group is a needy and appropriate measure to support and empower the

Community Based Organizations to carry out water and sanitation services.

The participants strongly recommend that initiatives taken by the participating organizations, other

institutions, governments and community based organizations in relation to the following be continued.

ü Recognition of the need to share knowledge , best practices and lessons learn at regional and

International levels.

ü Promote Peoples' participation as a strategy, in achieving social, MDG and national goals set for water

and sanitation. Recognize the voluntary service done by the community based organizations and

their silent contribution to development. Make strategies to empower them further by Improve the

capacities of the office bearers of Community Based Organizations (CBOs ) by providing training on

effective communication, new technologies, aiming at better intra and interrelationship among

them. Diversify activities of CBOs to sustain the enthusiasm of its members

ü Formulation of a long term plan to address the shortage of water availability in dry areas such as

Jaffna Peninsula, converting lagoons to fresh water lakes.

ü Promotion of rainwater harvesting (RWH) to be considered as one of the solutions to water

shortage and to make RWH to be made more socially acceptable through effective beneficiary

education.

ü Building of child friendly water and sanitation units in schools to be continued more extensively.

ü Due consideration given to gender equity in achieving sustainability of rural water supply and

sanitation schemes.

ü Establish a National Committee dedicated for control/prevention of Chronic Kidney Disease of

unknown etiology where toxic water being suspected a main causative and to strengthen the

implementation of short term solutions.

ü Recognize water shed boundaries, take appropriate action to improve water quality and blend old

and new technologies future for rural water schemes. Traditional knowledge and know how is

respected and realized when introducing new laws, rules or practices on its present day to ensure

social integration and environment friendly approaches in water supply projects.

th17 August 2013Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

National Steering Committee, Ministry of Water Supply & Drainage, National Community Water Trust,

National Water supply & Drainage Board, Lanka Rain Water Harvesting Forum

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

CONFERENCE DECLARATION

42 43

Community Managed Water Supply Programme - Palagala

The visit includes a community managed piped water supply and sanitation program in rural area

implemented under the guidance of Community Water Supply and Sanitation Project in year 2007.

Discussion will be held with the rural community on the water supply and sanitation program

implemented and managed by them. The Community Based Organization is the center for villages and it

has introducing diversification activities aiming sustainability of the progaramme too.

SIGIRIYA

Sigiriya (Lion Rock) is located in the Matale

District of the Central Province, Sri Lanka in an

area dominated by a massive column of rock

nearly 200 meters high. According to the ancient

Sri Lankan chronicle the Culavamsa the site was

selected by King Kasyapa (477 - 495 AD) for his

new capital. He built his palace on the top of this

rock and decorated its sides with colorful

frescoes. On a small plateau about halfway up the

side of this rock he built a gateway in the form of

an enormous lion. The name of this place is

derived from this structure - Sīhāgiri, the Lion Rock. The capital and the royal palace were abandoned

after the king's death. It was used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14thcentury.

Programme

07.00 Start at Anuradhapura

08.30 Aukana Temple and Kalawewa

10.30 Palagala Arunalu CBO Scheme (CWSSP)

12.30 Lunch at Dambulla

14.00 Sigiriya or Kandy

16.00 End of the programme

OPTION 1

Community Managed Water Supply Programme and Cultural Visit in North Central and

Central Region

This field visit is centered in the dry zone of Sri Lanka, in the Anuradhapura and Matale districts and

reaches to Kandy. The visit includes a community managed piped water supply and sanitation program in

rural area implemented under the guidance of Community Water Supply and Sanitation Project in 2002.

Discussion will be held with the rural community on the water supply and sanitation program

implemented and managed by them. Also will visit to Awkana,one of the ancient Buddhist temple, Kala

Wewa - heritage tank and Sigiriya - The 8th wonder of the World.

THE AVUKANA STATUE

The Avukana statue is a standing statue of the

Buddha near Kekirawa in North Central Sri

Lanka. The statue, which has a height of more

than 40 feet (12 m), has been carved out of a

large granite rock face during the 5th century. It

depicts a variation of the Abhaya mudra, and the

closely worn robe is elaborately carved.

Constructed during the reign of King

Dhatusena and Avukana statue is one of the best

examples of a standing statue constructed in

ancient Sri Lanka. It is now a popular tourist

attraction in the country.

KALA WEWA

This reservoir was built by the King Dhatusena

who ruled the country during 455- 473 CE in

the 5th century. Tamil invaders who arrived from

South India ruled the island during the period

from 429 to 455 AD. King Dhathusena deposed

them and united the country and then He

wanted to develop the irrigation system by

constructing several tanks, canals, etc., in and

round the kingdom of Anuradhapura.After

completion of construction of Kala Wewa, the

king built another tank called Balalu Wewa

nearby and connected the two together making

the biggest tank in Sri Lanka. Water of the tank was transferred to the Thisā Wewa in Anuradhapura by an

ancient 54 miles (86.9 km) long canal called Jaya Ganga alias Yoda Ellawhich has a fine slope of one feet

per milebut according to some historians it is one inch per mile.

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

THFIELD VISITS - 18 AUGUST 2013

44 45

Community Managed Water Supply Programme - Palagala

The visit includes a community managed piped water supply and sanitation program in rural area

implemented under the guidance of Community Water Supply and Sanitation Project in year 2007.

Discussion will be held with the rural community on the water supply and sanitation program

implemented and managed by them. The Community Based Organization is the center for villages and it

has introducing diversification activities aiming sustainability of the progaramme too.

SIGIRIYA

Sigiriya (Lion Rock) is located in the Matale

District of the Central Province, Sri Lanka in an

area dominated by a massive column of rock

nearly 200 meters high. According to the ancient

Sri Lankan chronicle the Culavamsa the site was

selected by King Kasyapa (477 - 495 AD) for his

new capital. He built his palace on the top of this

rock and decorated its sides with colorful

frescoes. On a small plateau about halfway up the

side of this rock he built a gateway in the form of

an enormous lion. The name of this place is

derived from this structure - Sīhāgiri, the Lion Rock. The capital and the royal palace were abandoned

after the king's death. It was used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14thcentury.

Programme

07.00 Start at Anuradhapura

08.30 Aukana Temple and Kalawewa

10.30 Palagala Arunalu CBO Scheme (CWSSP)

12.30 Lunch at Dambulla

14.00 Sigiriya or Kandy

16.00 End of the programme

OPTION 1

Community Managed Water Supply Programme and Cultural Visit in North Central and

Central Region

This field visit is centered in the dry zone of Sri Lanka, in the Anuradhapura and Matale districts and

reaches to Kandy. The visit includes a community managed piped water supply and sanitation program in

rural area implemented under the guidance of Community Water Supply and Sanitation Project in 2002.

Discussion will be held with the rural community on the water supply and sanitation program

implemented and managed by them. Also will visit to Awkana,one of the ancient Buddhist temple, Kala

Wewa - heritage tank and Sigiriya - The 8th wonder of the World.

THE AVUKANA STATUE

The Avukana statue is a standing statue of the

Buddha near Kekirawa in North Central Sri

Lanka. The statue, which has a height of more

than 40 feet (12 m), has been carved out of a

large granite rock face during the 5th century. It

depicts a variation of the Abhaya mudra, and the

closely worn robe is elaborately carved.

Constructed during the reign of King

Dhatusena and Avukana statue is one of the best

examples of a standing statue constructed in

ancient Sri Lanka. It is now a popular tourist

attraction in the country.

KALA WEWA

This reservoir was built by the King Dhatusena

who ruled the country during 455- 473 CE in

the 5th century. Tamil invaders who arrived from

South India ruled the island during the period

from 429 to 455 AD. King Dhathusena deposed

them and united the country and then He

wanted to develop the irrigation system by

constructing several tanks, canals, etc., in and

round the kingdom of Anuradhapura.After

completion of construction of Kala Wewa, the

king built another tank called Balalu Wewa

nearby and connected the two together making

the biggest tank in Sri Lanka. Water of the tank was transferred to the Thisā Wewa in Anuradhapura by an

ancient 54 miles (86.9 km) long canal called Jaya Ganga alias Yoda Ellawhich has a fine slope of one feet

per milebut according to some historians it is one inch per mile.

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

THFIELD VISITS - 18 AUGUST 2013

44 45

OPTION 2

Community Managed Water Supply Programme and Cultural Visit in North Western Region

This field visit is centered in the Kurunegala district, part of the North Western province of Sri Lanka. The

visit includes a community managed water supply and sanitation project. Discussion will be held with the

beneficiary community on the water supply and sanitation project implemented and managed by them.

Also will visit one of the biggest Water Treatment Plant - Thuruwila and Yapahuwa Kindom - It's one of

the ephemeral capitals of medieval Sri Lanka.

THURUWILA WATER TREATMENT PLANT

YAPAHUWA KINGDOM

Yapahuwa was one of the ephemeral capitals of medieval Sri Lanka. The citadel of Yapahuwa lying midway

between Kurunagala and Anuradhapura was built around a huge granite rock rising abruptly almost a

hundred meters above the surrounding lowlands. In 1272, King Bhuvenakabahu transferred the capital

from Polonnaruwa to Yapahuwa in the face of Dravidian invasions from South India, bringing the Sacred

Tooth Relic with him. Following the death of King Bhuvenakabahu in 1284, the Pandyans of South India

invaded Sri Lanka once again, and succeeded in capturing Sacred Tooth Relic. Following its capture,

Yapahuwa was largely abandoned and inhabited by Buddhist monks and religious ascetics.

Programme

06.45 Start at Anuradhapura

07.45 Thuruwila Water Treatment Plant

10.30 Galgamuwa - MahawelithennaCBO

12.30 Lunch at Yapahuwa cultural hotel

13.30 Visit the ancient Kingdom of Yapahuwa

16.00 Directly to Katunayaka

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

MEMORIES

46 47

OPTION 2

Community Managed Water Supply Programme and Cultural Visit in North Western Region

This field visit is centered in the Kurunegala district, part of the North Western province of Sri Lanka. The

visit includes a community managed water supply and sanitation project. Discussion will be held with the

beneficiary community on the water supply and sanitation project implemented and managed by them.

Also will visit one of the biggest Water Treatment Plant - Thuruwila and Yapahuwa Kindom - It's one of

the ephemeral capitals of medieval Sri Lanka.

THURUWILA WATER TREATMENT PLANT

YAPAHUWA KINGDOM

Yapahuwa was one of the ephemeral capitals of medieval Sri Lanka. The citadel of Yapahuwa lying midway

between Kurunagala and Anuradhapura was built around a huge granite rock rising abruptly almost a

hundred meters above the surrounding lowlands. In 1272, King Bhuvenakabahu transferred the capital

from Polonnaruwa to Yapahuwa in the face of Dravidian invasions from South India, bringing the Sacred

Tooth Relic with him. Following the death of King Bhuvenakabahu in 1284, the Pandyans of South India

invaded Sri Lanka once again, and succeeded in capturing Sacred Tooth Relic. Following its capture,

Yapahuwa was largely abandoned and inhabited by Buddhist monks and religious ascetics.

Programme

06.45 Start at Anuradhapura

07.45 Thuruwila Water Treatment Plant

10.30 Galgamuwa - MahawelithennaCBO

12.30 Lunch at Yapahuwa cultural hotel

13.30 Visit the ancient Kingdom of Yapahuwa

16.00 Directly to Katunayaka

“Water Cooperation for Community Development” 2nd International Conference on Community & Water Services

MEMORIES

46 47

Design and Production: Rural Water & Sanitation SectionNational Water Supply & Drainage Board

Sri Lanka

Community and Water Services ConferenceMinistry of Water Supply and Drainage

35, 'Lak Diya Medura’ , Sunil MawathaPelawatta, Battaramulla

Sri LankaTelephone: +94 11 2177222, +94 11 2820851

Fax: +94 11 2177223, +94 11 2768520Email: waterconf2013@gmail.com

Web: www.communitywater2013.org