Progress Year 6 – 2021/2022

The project titled “Safe Disaster – Resilient Drinking water to Floods and Drought Prone Areas of Sri Lanka”, which was operating in Badulla, Moneragala Kilinochchi and Mullativu district from 2016-2021 has been extended to Anuradhpura and Mannar district for the extended period of April 2022- March 2025

The project aims to promotes rainwater harvesting system (RWHS) as practically, disaster resilient water supply option for war affected and dry zone areas by demonstration and building capacity of officials, professionals, community and school children on rainwater harvesting and ground water recharging technology in order to influence the policies and practices of flood and drought management in Anurdhapura ,Badulla, , Kilinochchi, Mannar, Moneragala, and Mullaithivu, Districts.

OBJECTIVE I :  Demonstrate and provide disaster-resilient water supplies to vulnerable communities in CKDu, war affected and dry zone areas of Sri Lanka

• Demonstration of Rainwater Harvesting systems (RWHS) in schools

A total of 26 schools situated in the Badulla, Mullaithivu, Mannar, and Anuradhapura Districts were visited. six schools were selected in year 2021/2022, and 14 schools in year 2022/2023.

A total of 9 schools have benefited from the installation of 12 rainwater harvesting systems (RWHS), six systems with a capacity of 30,000 liters each and six systems with a capacity of 16,000 liters each. Each RWHS unit is composed of a Ferro cement tank, gutters, a first flush system, filters, and taps.

3,555 students (1,790 males and 1,765 females), as well as 279 teachers (142 males and 137 females), will now have the privilege of utilizing these RWHS units for their safe drinking water needs.

Badulla District

1. B/Ganapathi Tamil Maha Vidayalye in Hulankapolla ,Welimada.

2. B/Vatavana.K.V in Thalangamuva, Mahiyanganaya.

3. B/ Dikkapitiya Vidyalaya, , Puhulpola, Welimada ( 16000L – 2 Systems)

4. B/ Sri Devananda. M.M.V Kotakithula ,Welimada, (16000L – 2 Systems)

Mullaitivu District

1. Mu/Senmalai Maha Vidayalaya in Senmalai , Maritinapttu .

2. Mu/Thevipuram GTMS in Thevipuram , Puthukkudiruppu .

3. Mu/Palinagar Maha Vidayalaya in Palinagar, Manthai East.

Moneragala District

1.            Mo/Kotiyagala Maha Vidayalaya in Kotiyagala , Siyambalanduwa

Mannar District

1. Mn/Kaddai Adampan RCT MV, DSD-Madhu, GN- Kaddai Aadampan.

A series of 30 operations and maintenance (O&M) training programs were successfully conducted schools situated in the districts of Mullaitivu, Kilinochchi, Monaragala, and Badulla.

• School Water connections ( Allocation from PALM)

A water connection from the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) has been established for Kn/Umayalpuram GTMS in Kilinochchi. This connection will provide a safe drinking water source for a total of 152 students and 23 teachers, comprising 71 males and 104 females.

• School children RWH and home gardening project at their homes

Certificates along with home gardening tools were distributed to a group of 7 winners and 19 participants from the final round of Home Gardening Competition. . This distribution took place across 7 schools located in Kilinochchi, Badulla, and Moneragala.

• Water Quiz

The final round of the Water Quiz took place on the Zoom platform, connecting students from various centers in Badulla, Moneragala, Kilinochchi, and Mullativu with the Rain Centre in Colombo. Among the participants, six winners were chosen across two distinct categories.

In the primary category, the winners are as follows:

Winner: I Gajana from Mu/Suthanthirapuram Tamil Vidyalayam

1st Runner Up: R M Akila Indrajith Premathissa from B/ D S Senanayake Primary School

1st Runner Up: D M Sashini Nimeshika Bandara from Mo/ Dombaghawela Maha Vidyalaya

In the secondary category, the winners are as follows:

Winner: A M Dewmi Mihara from Mo/ Balaharuwa Kanishta Vidyalaya

Winner: W L Kaveesha Gimantha from Mo/ Balaharuwa Kanishta Vidyalaya

2nd Runner Up: R M Chamodya Naduni from B/ Uduhawara Maha Vidyalaya

2nd Runner Up: W M Piyumi Kaveesha from Mo/ Balaharuwa Kanishta Vidyalaya

•Construct RWHS at Households

10 awareness programs were organized to educate the selected target communities about rainwater harvesting and its benefits. These programs engaged a total of 272 participants, comprising 134 males and 138 females. Additionally, 2nd awareness programs were conducted, specifically targeting households that had been chosen. During these programs, selected households were visited.

The project achieved the successful construction of 84 rainwater harvesting systems (RWHS) with a capacity of 8,000 liters each. This initiative directly benefited a total of 318 individuals, including 148 males and 170 females, by providing them access to clean drinking water.

Each of the 84 constructed RWHS consists a Ferro cement tank, gutters, a first flush system, a filter, and a tap, all working to enhance water collection and quality.

A total of 5 operations and maintenance (O&M) training programs have been successfully conducted. These programs focused on training 83 beneficiaries in the proper operations and maintenance of rainwater harvesting systems.

•Financing Household  RWH systems through loan scheme

Engagements were held with the Initiatives in Development of Entrepreneur Approaches and Strategies (I/D/E/A/S) to establish a grant cum loan scheme aimed at facilitating the installation of rainwater harvesting systems (RWHS) for households in need. An MOU has been formalized with IDEAS, outlining the provision of a loan cum grant for households that express the need for RWHS through this particular initiative.

Community awareness programs were organized in the districts of Mullathivu, Kilinochchi, and Monaragala. These programs effectively informed people about the financial aspects of the program as well as its associated benefits.

The installation of 19 RWHS, each with a capacity of 5000 liters, was successfully completed in the districts of Badulla, Mullaithivu, Monaragala, and Kilinochchi. This effort resulted in a total of 67 individuals (28 males and 40 females) gaining access to safe drinking water through the RWH system during the  year 2021/2022. In the subsequent year 2022/2023, an additional 57 people (35 males and 22 females) received safe drinking water through the RWH system.

Furthermore, a total of 23 awareness programs were conducted in the districts of Badulla, Mullaithivu, and Monaragala. Among the beneficiaries ,35 individuals received comprehensive training in the operation and maintenance of RWHS, ensuring the sustained functionality of the systems.

• well water recharge systems

Two  awareness programs were conducted, targeting specific communities. The programs reached out to 76 participants, providing them knowledge about well water recharge systems and the advantages they offer. Subsequently, eight second awareness programs were organized for the chosen beneficiaries.

successfully installed 54 well recharge systems across the districts of Monaragala, Badulla, Kilinochchi, and Mullaithivu. This initiative led to the enhancement of both water quality and quantity in these 54 wells, benefiting 279 individuals (comprising 140 males and 139 females).

Furthermore, two operations and maintenance (O&M) training programs were held, during which 23 individuals were equipped with the necessary skills for effectively managing and maintaining well water recharge systems.

•Set up mobile operation and maintainer’s unit

Two training programs were successfully conducted in collaboration with CAPNET Lanka and S-lon Lanka Pvt Ltd in the districts of Badulla and Moneragala. These programs took place from the 3rd to the 6th of March 2022.

In Badulla, a Mason training program was held at Vatavana on the 3rd and 4th of March 2022, involving 20 participants. Similarly, a Mason training program was conducted at Wellawaya in Monaragala from the 4th to the 5th of March 2022, with the participation of 17 individuals. In total, 37 Masons were trained in the construction and maintenance of rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems. Among these participants, 29 were males and 8 were females.

As part of the training program, each of the 37 participants received pipe cutters, manuals, and leaflets to further support their understanding and practice of RWH system construction and maintenance techniques.

OBJECTIVE 2: Build Capacity of Officials and professionals on Rainwater Harvesting Technology

•Establish a pool of technical experts on RWH

Five rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems were designed and successfully implemented as follows:

• A customized RWHS was installed at Mardanmaduwa in Kapethigollawa, incorporating remote sensors to measure various parameters including pH, water temperature, and water level. This installation was overseen by a team from the National Building Research Organization (NBRO).
• An underground RWHS was constructed for gardening purposes in Hokandara, Thalawathugoda.
• Two RWH systems utilizing PE tanks were installed at the State Printing Corporation in Godagama. These systems were intended for toilet flushing.
• An RWHS designed for toilet flushing was implemented at an elders’ home located in Piliyandala.
• A PE RWHS with a capacity of 10,000 liters was established at the Wijaya Group Factory in Hokandara, specifically for car washing purposes.

•Awareness programs for officials and private sector

A total of three Zoom programs were organized with the aim of raising awareness among provincial officials, Pradeshiya Saba, and Municipal Council staff from the Northwestern Province, Uva Province, and Northern Province. Through these programs, a comprehensive understanding of rainwater harvesting (RWH) and its  policies was imparted to 292 officers, enlightening them about its benefits and regulatory framework.

Furthermore, two separate awareness programs were conducted specifically for officials in the Badulla and Mullaitivu districts. These programs served to enhance the knowledge and capacity of 176 government sector officials. The focus was on providing them with a deeper understanding of the current policies and regulations on rainwater harvesting, along with insights into the relevant technologies.

• Mason training programs

A series of four mason training programs were successfully organized in collaboration with the Vocational Training Authority, in Badulla, Mullaitivu, Anuradhapura, and Mannar districts.

These training initiatives aimed to empower and educate 96 youths, enhancing their skills in the construction of rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems, as well as their operation and maintenance. Participants were also educated about the technology behind rainwater harvesting.

The training sessions contributed to the capacity-building of these youths, with 64 males and 32 females benefiting from the program across the mentioned districts.

•Mason training program for SARNET member countries

Preparations are underway for the upcoming SARNET mason training program. This training initiative will extend its offerings to the SARNET member countries and selected masons. The focus of the training will be on constructing a Pumpkin-shaped rainwater harvesting (RWH) tank. The implementation of this program is expected to improve the connections among SARNET members and simultaneously serve as a platform to highlight technological advancements from the South Asian region. A total of seventeen applications have been received for participation in the program. applications, CVs are being reviewed. The training program is scheduled to take place in May 2023.

• Research and Development – Rainwater and its impacts on health

Extensive research is being conducted to delve into the topic of rainwater and its potential impacts on health. Specifically, the study is focused on understanding how the consumption of rainwater can affect human health. An activity plan has been formulated in collaboration with Rajarata University of Sri Lanka.

The research study areas have been tentatively selected as Nochchiyagama, Wilachchiya, and Kebithigollewa Divisional Secretariat Divisions (DSDs). These locations have been chosen for their suitability and relevance to the study’s objectives. The comprehensive study aims to shed light on the connections between rainwater and health, providing valuable insights into this important aspect of water consumption.

• Develop a web based rainwater harvesting calculator

The web calculator has been officially launched. This launch coincided with World Water Day, which added significance to the event. The calculator has been integrated into the LRWHF website, at http://www.lankarainwater.org/rainwater-calculator/. The web-based calculator was unveiled on the 22nd of March, World Water Day, at the Rain Centre. The launch was officiated by Mr. Ruwan Ruhunugae of the National Building Research Organization (NBRO). This user-friendly online tool is poised to serve as a valuable resource for individuals seeking to calculate and understand rainwater-related information.

• Networking and Dissemination of Information – Establish Resource Centre

A resource center has been established at the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) premises located in , Puthukkudiruppu, Mullativu. A ceremony was conducted to inaugurate the opening of this resource center on the 25th of March 2022 at. The event was attended by 18 representatives from various organizations including NWSDB Disaster Mitigation Centre (DMC), Agriculture Department, Pradesha Sabha, MOH, Grama Niladari , Development Officer, and Rural Development Society. This resource center will serve as a valuable platform for the public, offering information and showcasing models related to rainwater harvesting in the Mullativu area.

• Networking and Dissemination of Information -School wall art competition

Installation of wall art boards was undertaken, resulting in the placement of 94 boards across schools situated in the Monaragala, Kilinochchi, and Mullaitivu districts. Certificates and gifts were bestowed upon all participants and winners of the Wall Art Competition. These boards display messages concerning rainwater conservation and climate change, contributing to the awareness of school children.

• Networking and Dissemination of Information – Sharing project experience

The project experience has been shared to foster promotion and advocacy aimed at pertinent authorities. The goal is to update rainwater harvesting (RWH) as a viable drinking water solution in areas prone to drought and flooding in Sri Lanka.

An event was organized to celebrate both the World Water Day on the 22nd of March 2022 and the 25th Anniversary of LRWHF. This event was held at the Rain Center and witnessed the launch of several project outputs, including the web calculator, a Practitioners Guide for RWH in Sri Lanka, and an animated video for school children in three languages (sponsored by Elpitiya Plantations). Esteemed attendees included Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena, Minister of Education; Mr. Reed Aeschliman, Mission Director of USAID; officials from Elpitiya Plantations; Mr. S.C Weerasekara Group Director of  Capital Mahraraja Group; Mr. N Abeywickrama of IDEAS; staff from USAID; and LRWHF Board Members. This event facilitated the celebration of achievements and the introduction of significant project components to a diverse audience.

• Update and strengthen LRWHF’s website and social media – Social media

The LRWHF project has been actively working to raise public awareness about its activities, success stories, events, and programs. To achieve this, the LRWHF publishes a Varsha Newsletter every quarter, providing updates to public the LRWHF has shared three issues of the Varsha Newsletter on Facebook and issue.com.

Additionally, a video specifically designed for school children, available in both Sinhala and Tamil languages, has been uploaded to the Lanka Rainwater Harvesting Forum’s YouTube channel. This video has also been shared across their Facebook platform, ensuring a broader reach to the audience.

The video was prepared for the Varsha Short Film Festival has subsequently uploaded to the LRWHF’s YouTube channel, aimed at disseminating the project’s message to a wider general audience.

• Networking and Dissemination of Information – SARNET Activities.

The project has been actively engaged in several impactful initiatives: Project Proposals Development: A concept note was submitted, and subsequently, a proposal was put forth to the Global EBA Fund. Inputs were gathered from two partner organizations, Kanchan Nepal and Raah Foundation India, to develop the proposal.

Country Level Cluster Meetings: Meetings were conducted with various stakeholders to explore potential collaborations. Two meetings were held with Mr. Tariq Usman from PLAN International Bangladesh and Mr. Zahir Gardezi from the Government of Pakistan. Meetings were also held with Bhutan and Bangladesh to identify future collaboration opportunities.

SARNET Monthly Webinar Series: A series of webinars (7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th) were successfully conducted to facilitate knowledge sharing on rainwater harvesting among South Asian countries.

Earth Day Social Media Campaign: An Earth Day campaign emphasized rainwater harvesting practices and their importance, resonating with Earth Day’s theme. A call for slogans was shared on social media platforms. Kanchan Nepal (KN) and WASH Solutions India, both SARNET members, responded actively. A poster was designed incorporating KN’s slogan and shared across LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.

Youth Rainwater Champions Network – SARNET: An inauguration program for the Youth Rainwater Champions Network was conducted on June 3rd, 2022.The event was attended by 25 young individuals from national and international backgrounds. The program aims to promote youth engagement in rainwater harvesting and foster knowledge exchange among youth groups on a national and international scale.

National/Regional/International Conference Preparation: Initial preparations for a significant conference were undertaken. The conference, titled “Rainwater Harvesting: A Sustainable Solution for Climate Change Resilience and Achieving SDGs,” focuses on highlighting the potential of rainwater harvesting for climate change mitigation and achieving SDG 6.A brochure for the conference is now accessible online, and a dedicated website has been developed and shared via social media. A steering committee meeting was convened, and the Terms of Reference (TOR) were shared among the members.

• Publication

During the initial stages, ideas and arrangements were thoroughly discussed and organized. The planning encompassed the formulation of social media and digital media campaigns, aimed at promoting both project activities and a nationwide initiative. Various activities were identified to fulfill the campaign’s objectives, which revolve around advocating Rainwater Harvesting, emphasizing its usage, benefits, and advantages within the community. It is important  to construct a comprehensive action plan that outlines the specifics of the promotion campaign.