Vavuniya farmers misguided over drinking water project

by P. Krishnaswamy

Minister of Water Supply and Drainage Dinesh Gunawardena expressed confidence that his Ministry would overcome all difficulties that are being encountered on implementing the ADB-funded Rs. 3,700 ml water supply project in Vavuniya.

Commenting on the protests now being staged by some farmers against the project, he said that these farmers have been misled and are having reservations over the project that would provide the much-needed drinking water to an overwhelming majority of residents in Vavuniya.

Even the farmer communities would benefit immensely under the project, he said adding that all issues of the protesting farmers would be solved soon and he would ensure that irrigation water will be made available to them.

All families affected by the project will be compensated and alternative lands and houses will be provided to them, the Minister said.