Ampara -the first recipient of rain water harvesting

Twenty households and three community centres in Mangalagama in the Ampara district were the first recipients of rain water harvesting tanks under John Keells Foundation's latest sustainability-related initiative.

Rain water is the most pure form of water. If collected and stored properly, it can be used for all domestic purposes including drinking.

Collection of rain water is an effective method of reducing the problem of water shortage in areas where good quality fresh surface water or groundwater is lacking. This process will not only increase availability of ground water but would also reduce water bills, mitigate damage by flooding and pollution and save energy required for water treatment and transportation.

Mangalagama was selected as the site for the project launch based on its association with the Foundation's Village Adoption Project whilst also serving as a supplier of cashew to Ceylon Cold Stores. A technical feasibility commissioned in the village confirmed that the village suffered from a severe water scarcity and that the majority of its population of 750 families who were farmers and Samurdhi holders had no permanent income throughout the year. Hence this village was found to have the need, suitability and feasibility to be provided rainwater harvesting facilities. The beneficiary households were selected according to such criteria as accessibility to national water supply, distance from nearest water source and suitability of the structure, particularly its roofing.

The village temple, school and dispensary were provided with 20,000 Litre tanks on the basis of their central role as community centres whilst the twenty households were supplied with 5,000 Litre tanks.