Challenges in Utilizing Water Resources in Lower Reaches of Kanakarayanaru of Northern Sri Lanka for Efficient and Equitable Water Allocation

Abstract

Even though the Northern part of Sri Lanka is dry zone, it has potential water resources by the means of constructed tanks and diversion along the river basins. But some part of this region still frequently suffering many water related issues and water scarcity, not only in the domestic usage but also for demand for agriculture. Meanwhile, inefficient rain water management especially, during the heavy rain period in the Monsoon time allows to reach rain water in to the ocean without any proper usage. These issues should be addressed by way of sustainable water resources development and efficient water management process. The Kangarayan Aru is the largest river basin in the Northern Province. Water resource has been almost exhausted in the upper reaches of this basin with the recent augmentation of Iranamdu Irrigation Reservoirs in Kilinochchi District. However, there is amble water potential in the lower reaches of KanakarayanAruie below the Iranamdu. That should be considered for the sustainable solution for increasing water demand across the water sectors to support irrigated agriculture, urban development and domestic needs for growing populations within and out of this basin. This paper outlines the research problem of an ongoing research and spell out a possible research solution to manage water resources in sustainable manner in the study area of Lower reaches of Kanakarayan River basin.