Domestic water considerations within large irrigation and resettlement projects: A case study in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Domestic water supply, utilization and management were characterized within the Mahaweli Development Scheme in Sri Lanka. Domestic water in a Mahaweli-developed village was compared to that in an ancient village. Domestic water supply and quality were linked to irrigation supply and local hydrogeology. Taste, flow and accessibility determined water utilization. Hydrogeology in the ancient village provided a better domestic water situation. Agency-provided wells often went unused in the new village because of poor quality and unavailability of groundwater. Surface-water sources were likewise less reliable in the new village. Consequences of poor siting included increased workloads and health risks for domestic water users. Domestic water considerations that must be incorporated in irrigation/resettlement planning are presented. Simple hydrologic investigations utilization of local knowledge and participation can assist planners and managers to provide villagers with safe and acceptable domestic water.