Water is essential for life, and yet, for the people living in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka, access to this vital resource is a constant struggle. The region, which includes areas like Jaffna, Kilinochchi, and Mannar, has been grappling with water scarcity for decades, with the situation becoming increasingly dire. This scarcity not only affects daily life, but it also hampers agriculture, the main source of income for many in the region and threatens public health.  

Understanding the Water Sources 

The Northern Province has a semi-arid climate, characterized by long dry periods with little rainfall. The primary water sources in the region are surface water from rivers, underground aquifers, and man-made reservoirs. However, these sources are under immense pressure due to both natural and human-induced factors. 

Surface Water 

The main surface water sources in the Northern Province are rivers like the Iranaimadu, Kala Oya, and Nandikadal. These rivers are vital for both drinking water and irrigation, especially for the agricultural activities that form the backbone of the region’s economy. However, many of these rivers are seasonal, with water levels fluctuating dramatically based on the monsoon rains. During the dry season, these rivers often dry up or become severely reduced, making it difficult to meet the needs of local communities. 

Water tank © Renaissance Sri Lanka and Canva  

In addition, due to deforestation, urbanization, and poor land management practices, the catchment areas for these rivers have degraded, further reducing the amount of water flowing into them. This degradation also leads to increased sedimentation in the rivers, affecting water quality and making it more difficult to treat for consumption. 

Sources of surface water © Renaissance Sri Lanka and Canva 

Groundwater 

Groundwater, stored in underground aquifers, is another critical source of water in Northern Sri Lanka. Wells and boreholes provide drinking water and water for irrigation, especially in areas where surface water is unreliable. Groundwater, however, is not immune to the pressures of water scarcity. Over-extraction is a serious issue in the Northern Province, where farmers and households rely heavily on wells to meet their needs. In some areas, over-extraction has led to a decline in the water table, making it more difficult and costly to access water. 

The quality of groundwater is also a major concern. In coastal areas, the intrusion of saltwater into the aquifers due to over-extraction has made the water undrinkable. This salinization of groundwater affects the health of both people and crops, further exacerbating the water crisis in the region. 

Boreholes © Renaissance Sri Lanka and Canva  

Rainwater Harvesting 

Given the unpredictable nature of rainfall, rainwater harvesting has become an important source of water for many households in the Northern Province. Large cisterns are often used to collect and store rainwater during the wet season for use during the dry season. While this system helps alleviate some of the challenges of water scarcity, it is not a sustainable solution on its own. Rainfall patterns have become increasingly erratic due to climate change, and the amount of rain that falls during the wet season is often insufficient to meet the demands of local communities throughout the year. 

The Impacts of Water Scarcity 

The water scarcity in Northern Sri Lanka has far-reaching consequences, impacting nearly every aspect of life in the region. From public health to agriculture, the shortage of water is a major hurdle to the region’s development. 

Public Health Concerns 

Access to clean drinking water is essential for maintaining public health, and the lack of reliable water sources in the Northern Province has led to significant health challenges. The contamination of available water sources is a major issue. With limited access to safe drinking water, many communities are forced to rely on contaminated sources, leading to outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid fever. These diseases, which are preventable with proper sanitation and access to clean water, continue to affect the health and well-being of the population. 

In addition to the risks posed by contaminated water, the lack of water also impacts hygiene practices. Limited water availability makes it difficult for people to maintain basic sanitation, contributing to the spread of diseases and reducing overall public health. 

Agricultural Strain 

Agriculture, which employs a large portion of the population in the Northern Province, is heavily reliant on water. The region’s agricultural activities are centered around rice and vegetable farming, both of which require consistent access to water for irrigation. Water scarcity has led to reduced crop yields, impacting food security for families and communities. 

Farmers in the Northern Province face severe challenges in securing enough water for irrigation during the dry season. The unpredictability of rainfall, combined with the depletion of groundwater resources, means that many farmers must either cut back on their crop production or abandon their farms altogether. The lack of water also affects livestock farming, as animals require water for drinking and for the cultivation of feeding crops. 

Impact of water scarcity © Renaissance Sri Lanka and Canva 

As a result of these challenges, farmers have faced economic hardships, leading to increased poverty levels and migration to urban areas in search of work. The loss of agricultural productivity has also contributed to the overall economic stagnation in the region. 

Economic Consequences 

The economic impact of water scarcity in the Northern Province is immense. Agriculture, the region’s primary industry, is severely affected by the unreliable supply of water. Reduced agricultural output leads to lower income for farmers, and the ripple effect spreads throughout the local economy. The cost of water for irrigation has also increased, further burdening farmers who already struggle to make a living. 

In addition, the lack of water for domestic use and industry limits the potential for economic development in the region. Without access to adequate water resources, it is difficult to attract investment or develop industries that require reliable water supplies, such as manufacturing and tourism. As a result, water scarcity has become a barrier to the economic growth and development of the Northern Province. 

The Path Forward: Sustainable Solutions 

To address the water scarcity in Northern Sri Lanka, it is crucial to implement sustainable solutions that focus on both water conservation and the development of reliable water sources. One such solution is the rehabilitation of traditional water management systems, such as tanks and reservoirs, which have been used for centuries in Sri Lanka. These systems can be restored to improve water storage and distribution, ensuring that communities have access to water even during the dry season. 

Another potential solution is the promotion of efficient water usage in agriculture. Techniques such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting can help farmers use water more efficiently, reducing waste and increasing crop yields. Training and education programs for farmers on sustainable water management practices are also essential. 

In addition to improving water infrastructure, it is crucial to address the issue of groundwater depletion. Encouraging the responsible use of groundwater, along with the promotion of rainwater harvesting, can help alleviate some of the pressure on aquifers. Integrated water management, which includes the collaboration of local communities, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations, is key to ensuring the long-term sustainability of water resources in the region. 

Addressing Water Scarcity in Sri Lanka: Renaissance Sri Lanka’s Commitment to Change 

Water scarcity is a pressing issue in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province, particularly in rural areas like Pusarikulam  and Madukkarai in the Mannar District. Recognizing the profound impact of this crisis on livelihoods and communities, Renaissance Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Movement for National Land and Agricultural Reform (MONLAR), has launched an ambitious water project aimed at bringing sustainable solutions to these underserved regions. 

Mannar District and Maddukarai Village © Google Map 

The Mission: Building Resilient Communities Through Water Access 

At the heart of Renaissance Sri Lanka’s mission lies a commitment to empowering communities by improving access to essential resources. The water project in the Mannar District is a significant step toward addressing the critical water shortage that has long hindered agricultural productivity and household well-being in Pusarikulam  and Madukkarai. 

This initiative involves the construction of agro-wells and a community water tank to directly tackle the dual challenges of agricultural water needs and reliable access to clean drinking water. By leveraging sustainable water management practices, this project aims to uplift the lives of families in these villages, enabling them to thrive despite the harsh climatic conditions of the Northern Province. 

Pusarikulam  Agroecology Garden models © MONLAR 

The Plan: Sustainable Water Solutions 

  1. Agro-Wells in Pusarikulam : The project includes the construction of three agro-wells in Poosarikulam, designed to support the agricultural needs of 10 farming families. Agriculture is the primary livelihood for these families, but inconsistent water availability has often jeopardized their crops and income. These wells will provide a stable and reliable source of water, ensuring that farmers can cultivate their fields year-round and improve their agricultural productivity. With better access to water, these families can achieve food security and increase their economic resilience. 
  2. Community Water Tank in Madukkarai : In Madukkarai, the focus shifts to addressing household water needs. Renaissance Sri Lanka and MONLAR will construct a community water tank that will serve nine families directly and benefit an additional 36 individuals in the village. The tank will be fed by a sustainably managed community well, ensuring a steady supply of clean water for drinking, cooking, and household gardening. 

This initiative not only guarantees reliable water access but also fosters a sense of collective responsibility among the villagers for managing and maintaining their shared water resources. By involving the community in the project’s implementation and upkeep, the initiative promotes long-term sustainability and resilience. 

The Impact: Transforming Lives and Communities 

The anticipated outcomes of the water project extend far beyond the immediate benefits of improved access to water. The ripple effects of these efforts will touch multiple aspects of life in Pusarikulam  and Madukkarai: 

  • Improved Agricultural Productivity: With consistent water supply from agro-wells, farmers can cultivate their lands without the constant fear of drought. This stability will lead to better yields, increased income, and enhanced food security for their families. 
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: Access to clean water from the community tank will significantly improve hygiene and health outcomes. Families will no longer have to rely on unsafe or distant water sources, reducing the prevalence of waterborne diseases and the time spent on water collection. 
  • Strengthened Community Cohesion: The shared responsibility of managing community water resources fosters collaboration and unity among villagers, laying the groundwork for future development initiatives. 
  • Sustainability and Self-Reliance: By emphasizing sustainable water sourcing and community involvement, the project equips the residents with the tools and knowledge they need to manage their water resources effectively in the long term. 

A Step Toward a Brighter Future 

Renaissance Sri Lanka’s partnership with MONLAR underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling complex challenges like water scarcity. Together, these organizations are not only addressing immediate water needs but also paving the way for lasting change by empowering communities with sustainable solutions (Read More)

The water project in Mannar District is a testament to the power of targeted, community-driven initiatives. It demonstrates that with the right support and resources, even the most vulnerable communities can overcome adversity and build a brighter, more sustainable future. By improving access to water in Pusarikulam and Madukkarai, Renaissance Sri Lanka is creating opportunities for growth, resilience, and hope for generations to come. 

Conclusion 

Water scarcity in Northern Sri Lanka is a complex and pressing issue that affects millions of people. The lack of reliable water sources for drinking and farming has serious implications for public health, agriculture, and the economy. However, with the right strategies and the commitment of local communities, the government, and non-governmental organizations, it is possible to address these challenges and ensure that the people of Northern Sri Lanka have access to the water they need to thrive. Sustainable water management, infrastructure development, and community-based solutions will be critical to overcoming this crisis and securing a better future for the region. 

Reference  

Sri Lanka Water Partnership (SLWP). (2023). Water Resources in Sri Lanka and Challenges in the Northern Region. Retrieved from https://lankajalani.org/slwp-core-programmes/  

International Water Management Institute (IWMI). (2022). Groundwater Management in Northern Sri Lanka: Key Issues and Strategies. IWMI Research Reports. Retrieved from https://www.iwmi.org/2022/  

Climate Change Secretariat of Sri Lanka. (2021). Impact of Climate Variability on Water Resources in Sri Lanka. Ministry of Environment. 

World Bank. (2020). Water Scarcity and Resource Management in South Asia. Retrieved from https://www.worldbank.org/ext/en/home  

Rural Development Reports, Sri Lanka. (2019). Water Scarcity and Its Impact on Agriculture and Livelihoods in Northern Sri Lanka.