Under the Livelihood Development Support & Waste Management Programme, implemented by Janathakshan with funding support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), a canal cleaning programme was successfully conducted on 05 February 2026 at the Magulpokuna Canal in Welisara.
Responding to Post-Flood Environmental and Livelihood Challenges
Recent flooding in the Welisara area led to significant environmental degradation and canal blockages, resulting in water stagnation, heightened flood risks, and public health concerns. These impacts disproportionately affected Informal Waste Collectors (IWCs), whose daily livelihoods were disrupted due to the disaster.
In response, the programme initiated a targeted canal cleaning intervention aimed at restoring environmental conditions while simultaneously supporting vulnerable workers through short-term livelihood opportunities.
Programme Implementation
The one-day cleaning programme focused on:
- Removal of flood debris and accumulated solid waste
- Clearing canal blockages that restricted water flow
- Improving drainage efficiency and canal functionality
A total of 33 Informal Waste Collectors from flood-affected communities were engaged through a cash-for-work mechanism, enabling them to earn temporary income while actively contributing to environmental rehabilitation.
Janathakshan coordinated the activity by mobilizing IWCs, facilitating community-level engagement, and working closely with the Welisara Local Authority to ensure effective implementation. The Local Authority supported the intervention by identifying critical blockage points and providing labour assistance for canal cleaning operations.
Key Results and Community Benefits
The intervention resulted in:
- Improved canal flow and drainage capacity
- Removal of significant quantities of flood debris and solid waste
- Reduced likelihood of water stagnation and localized flooding
- Strengthened collaboration between Janathakshan and the Welisara Local Authority
Beyond the 33 direct beneficiaries, residents living along the Magulpokuna Canal, local businesses, and road users in the Welisara area benefited from improved environmental conditions and reduced flood vulnerability.
Strengthening Inclusive Recovery and Resilience
The Canal Cleaning Programme at Magulpokuna Canal demonstrates a people-centered and integrated approach to post-disaster recovery, linking environmental rehabilitation with livelihood support. Through strong collaboration among Janathakshan, UNDP, local authorities, and community members, the initiative contributes to cleaner surroundings, improved flood resilience, and strengthened livelihoods in flood-affected urban and peri-urban communities.
