In a significant step toward securing water access and promoting climate resilience in Sri Lanka’s dry zone, Janathakshan, with financial support from Green Empowerment, officially launched the rehabilitation of three rural irrigation systems in the Giribawa Division of the Kurunegala District on 28th July 2025.
The rehabilitation efforts target the Yatawatta, Warawewa (Mahawewa), Upper Maradankadawala Wewa, and Lower Maradankadawala Wewa systems, critical lifelines for local farming families in the region. These works aim to ensure the availability of irrigation water during crucial agricultural seasons and strengthen the adaptive capacity of communities vulnerable to climate change.
The launch ceremony was attended by a wide range of stakeholders, including Mr. Chandana Wattannawakoon, Chairman of the Giribawa District Council, along with Divisional Secretaries, Grama Niladharis, Village Development Officers from Rajangana left bank and Thambutta, and Chief Executive Officer / Executive Director of Janathakshan. Members of village-level organizations, local farmer groups, and community residents were also present, marking a strong collective commitment to the success of the project.
The rehabilitation activities are being implemented by farmer organizations, with technical assistance from the Department of Agrarian Development. In line with participatory development principles, a Social Development Committee and a Grievance Redress Committee have been established, comprising community representatives who will actively monitor the project’s progress and address any emerging concerns.
The project, with a budget allocation of approximately Rs. 10 million, is scheduled for completion before the Maha season cultivation season. Once completed, the restored irrigation systems will significantly boost agricultural productivity and enhance the climate resilience of farming families in Yatawatta, Warawewa, and Elanga areas.
This initiative reflects Janathakshan’s ongoing commitment to sustainable agriculture, community empowerment, and climate-adaptive rural development in Sri Lanka.
