SL should promote Irrigation Tourism - Minister Nimal Siripala

Priyanka Kurugala

Plans need to be drawn up to introduce and develop Irrigation Tourism in the country, Irrigation and Water Management Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said.

Irrigation and Water Management Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva and Ven Ellawala Medhananda Thera inspect the Irrigation Museum at the Mahaweli Centre. Picture by Roshan Thushara

The minister was addressing the inaugural ceremony of the Irrigation Museum at the Mahaweli Centre.

The minister said "We have to show our heritage to the world.

"The country needs to commence Irrigation Tourism centering our irrigation system".

He said many countries such as China, Africa pay more attention to their history and heritage.

The authorities need to pay attention to keep evidence when archaeologically important places are renovated. It would guide the people and future generations about the country's heritage and history, he said.

Ven Ellawala Medhananda Thera said Sri Lanka had provided irrigation technology for India, under the guidance of king Gajaba -I according to the Irupweda, one of the most oldest legends.

Even though many scholars have confirmed that the first tank of the country is Abhayaweawa. The first tank of the country is Dhigawapi Wewa in Rohanapura, the Thera said.

Irrigation and Water Management Deputy Minister W D Ekanayake and Mahaweli Centre Director Vigitha Mahalhewa also spoke.