Rainwater harvesting in Kayts

Würth Lanka and the Asia Pacific Alliance for Disaster Management in Sri Lanka (A-PAD SL) recently sponsored the Rooftop Rainwater Harvesting and Water Storage Project in Kayts in the Jaffna district.

The project is being implemented by the Asia Pacific Alliance for Disaster Management in Sri Lanka and CHA with the support of the Divisional Secretariat of Kayts, GA/District Secretariat of Jaffna, Jaffna District A-PAD Platform and the Disaster Management Centre.

The primary objective of the project is to provide water storage facilities through different means of water collection and harvesting in support of vulnerable resettled families enabling them to adapt and maximise water resources and enhance livelihood opportunities by supporting the provision of a basic human need. The project also aims to create awareness in water management for best use of scarce water resources and minimise protection issues of women and girls.

Managing Director, Würth Lanka (Pvt) Ltd., Rohan Amirthiah said, "We are extremely happy and grateful to partner with the Asia Pacific Alliance for Disaster Management in Sri Lanka and other organisations to help improve the quality of life and living standards of the families in Kayts by helping to provide a sustainable means of access to water which is a basic need for life and sustenance. It is our responsibility as good corporate citizens to ensure that less privileged communities are given a helping hand to overcome their difficulties and move forward," he said.

Kayts and its inhabitants are prone to slow onset of natural disasters such as drought, climate change and environment degradation and was also affected by the tsunami in 2004.

It has a population of over 10,000 of which 400 families are headed by women. Resettlement following the internal conflict has encouraged its inhabitants to return to the village and are provided houses, based on vulnerability.

With increased habitation, Kayts lacks the resources to cater to the basic needs of the people such as water for drinking, sanitation and decent living has affected families including their livelihoods.

Würth Lanka through its sponsorship will help install the rooftop rainwater harvesting systems including 1000 litre double layered plastic water tanks for storing water, gutters, down pipes, connectors and flush diverters in 10 selected households which will directly benefit inhabitants in the community.