|
|
 |
 |
 |
| Saturday, 29 May 2004 |
 |
|
 |
Features | |
| News Business Features Editorial Security Politics World Letters Sports Obituaries
|
The picturesque Maha Kanadarawa Tank in Mihintale by Prasad Abu Bakr Travelling about 3.5 Kilometres down and away inland on the Trincomalee Road in Mihintale one arrives at the most splendid site of the ancient Maha Kanadarawa Tank which irrigates around 6000 acres of land. It is unbelievable to stand over and view this man-made wanders which has been extensively used for the benefit of the public in the past.
The tank is also feeding grounds to many migrating birds which enhances the tank site during the season. It is also a common sight to see villagers throw in their fishing nets for a catch of the many variety of tank fish which has a popular demand among villagers in the area. This is also one of the most popular bathing spots not only amongst villagers but also the thousands of pilgrims who visit the area during Poson. It harbours the `Gale Vihare' which stands at one end of the Tank, with a large Buddha statue overlooking the vast catchment of water spanning an area of 126 sq miles. When the tank is full it spills over at the far end of the dam towards the temple creating a substantial stream which makes it difficult for villagers to cross over to the other side of the village. A stone bridge, first of its kind to be built originally, was discovered during a recent forest clearing exercise and is now an added attraction for pilgrims visiting the area. Villagers say that pilgrims who visit the area have the least respect for the environment.
To bathe, to fish and to even drink during high drought periods. It is about time that the authorities concerned put up some signs banning visitors from leaving behind garbage around the vicinity of the tank. This will preserve the `Maha Kanadarawa' tank and its beautiful surroundings to be enjoyed and made use of by our future generations. |
|
News | Business | Features
| Editorial | Security
Produced by Lake House |
Formerly identified in the past as Kanadiyadora or Khanu vapi this vast
project was made possible by the good work of King Maha Sena [276 - 303
A.C]. As thus the tank was named after him. During the reign of Sena the
II [853 - 887] dam was constructed at Maradankadawela and a 12-mile long
canal was later reported to have been restored and repaired by King Vijaya
Bahu [1055 - 1110] and improved and re-structured by King Parakrama Bahu
[1153 - 1186]. Restoration work of the tank was expedited again in 1958.
They pollute the bed of the tank by disposing food wrappings, plastic
bottles and other source of garbage which makes it a health hazard for the
villagers who use the tank mostly on a daily basis for their numerous
needs.
