On 5 September 2008, the Wegala Water Supply Scheme was officially opened. The scheme, supported by the World Bank under the 2nd Community Water Supply & Sanitation Project, was implemented by local NGO Pradeshiya Sabha in partnership with the provincial and local governments.

In her speech at the opening ceremony, World Bank country director Naoko Ishii congratulated all parties involved, especially local community members, who had covered 30% of the costs of the scheme themselves in the form of cash and labour.

Ms Ishii added that the challenge for the three divisions which had worked together to realise the project - Wegala, Meegahmadittha and Doraliyadda South - was now to operate and maintain 'this vital resource'. She said that she was confident that they would manage the scheme competently so that their children could reap the benefits of clean water for many years to come.

She assured those present of the World Bank's continued commitment to helping Sri Lanka deliver clean water to its people, noting that the Bank had just formulated a new Assistance Strategy for the country, in which water was high on the agenda.

Related news: Sri Lanka: Tangalle water scheme brings safe water to thousands, Source South Asia, 15 Sep 2008; Sri Lanka: NIRAS wins capacity building contract in water sector, Source South Asia, 18 Aug 2008

Source:World Bank, 05 Sep 2008

Tags: south asia, water resources management, water supply