Rs. 39 billion for irrigation projects

Thursday, 22 May 2014 00:15 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

“The Government has allocated Rs. 39 billion for irrigation projects,” said Irrigation and Water resources Management Minister Nimal Siripala

de Silva. Noting that measures have been taken to address the water issue of the North Western Province, the Minister made these observations in response to a question raised by UNP MP Sajith Premadasa in Parliament on Tuesday. He said that Mahakitula and Maha Kitula tanks have been earmarked for development. He added that 40% of the Nalanda Reservoir work is complete. Estimated cost of the project is Rs. 500 million. The Minister stated that 40% of the Maragahakanda reservoir work is complete and the Kaluganga project has commenced. Water of these projects will be supplied to Polonnaruwa soon. Minister Silva said the water supplied to Polonnaruwa would be diverted from Bowatenna to the Kurunegala District. The Minister also stated that the Deduru Oya reservoir is constructed with local funds and with traditional irrigation technology, adding that those who opposed the project at the outset were commending it now. The Hakwatunawa project could not be implemented as it would affect 250 families and therefore water from the Mahaweli River will be supplied to the Hakwatunawa tank. The Government is developing the country while listening to the people’s grievances, he added.