Reconstruction of Matara irrigation projects

P.P.G. Sugathadasa, Thihagoda group corr.

MATARA: Reconstruction and rehabilitation work on old and dilapidated irrigation projects in the Matara district are now in progress. Thihagoda-Urapola irrigation canal, Hakmana-Denagama agricultural canal are now being reconstructed by the Department of Irrigation.

In addition construction of side walls at strategic points of them, rehabilitation of two irrigation anicuts on the Southern embankment of the Denagama irrigation tank at Hakmana, reconstruction of Puwakgahakumbura anicut and the irrigation anicut off Wedakade, reconstruction of the breached irrigation dam between OP 1 and OP 2 anicuts, further strengthening and widening of stone walls of the Pethara irrigation anicut in the Divisional Secretariat Division of Thihagoda are carrying out.

Repair of the irrigation sluice and the water outlet of the Haliela reservoir at Kamburupitiya, further strengthening the embankment of the Ellewela irrigation tank at Hakmana.

reconstruction of all irrigation canals at Kiralakelle in the Matara Divisional Secretariat area, Kadduwa-Horagoda-Nape irrigation canal and all anicuts in the Kadwedduwa division in Devinuwara are expected to be completed before the end of the current year, Jagath Amarasekara, Irrigation Engineer, Matara told the "Daily News". The total expenditure of these new construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation of irrigation projects is over Rs. 10 million. Necessary funds are furnished by Irrigation Department.

With the completion of these activities paddy farmers in the Matara district would be able to cultivate their lands at both seasons of the year, Jagath Amarasekara, Irrigation Engineer, Matara further added.