The ongoing delay in allocating tank reserves in the Walawe Mahaweli Region has sparked frustration among farmers’ organisations, who accuse the Mahaweli Authority of negligence and improper land permits.
Sujeewa Gunasekara, Resident Business Manager of the Walawa Mahaweli Authority, revealed that a shortage of government surveyors and a Ministry circular banning the use of private surveyors have stalled efforts to formally allocate tank reserves in the region.
At a recent ‘Seasonal Meeting’ held at the Walawa Mahaweli Authority auditorium, farmers raised serious concerns that the Authority had issued permits allowing hotel owners, businessmen, and some farmers to occupy land within tank reserves, further complicating water management.
W. H. Sunil, Chairman of the Mahagama United Farmers’ Organisation, highlighted that while the historic Urusita Tank was full, other key tanks such as Kiriibbanwewa and Chandrikawewa lacked proper reserves, despite repeated complaints to the Authority.
The Kiriibbanwewa Divisional Committee Chairman, W. A. Dahanayake, described how overflowing tanks inundate nearby village houses, yet some officials claim those affected do not reside within official reserve zones.
Dahanayake also alleged past corruption within the Mahaweli Authority, where bribes may have led to the issuance of land permits on reserved tank areas, citing conflicting maps that confuse which boundaries are valid.
Responding to the grievances, Gunasekara acknowledged the Authority’s responsibility for previous mismanagement but stressed their commitment to resolving the issues fairly.
He stressed the importance of tank reserves as a national resource that supports hundreds of thousands of farmers and warned against exclusive claims by those living around the tanks.
However, continuing shortage of surveyors and bureaucratic restrictions have left farmers concerned about sustainable water management and the future of tank reserves critical to the Walawe region’s agricultural livelihood.
Leave a comment