Sri Lanka: Case Study of Diyagama East, Water Supply and Sanitation Project

Diyagama East Water Supply and Sanitation Project

Estate Sector Pilot Program under the 2nd Community Water Supply and Sanitation Project (2nd CWSSP)

Challenge

The Estate communities in Sri Lanka suffer from serious water shortages and lack of access to sanitary toilets. Open defecation is common causing serious health hazards adding to polluting of water resources. Diyagama East estate, Agarapathana in the Nuwara-Eliya Pradeshiya Sabha (PS) area had only five temporary pit latrines for 215 households. There was an acute water shortage with only two stand posts providing an intermittent supply of water of questionable quality.

Approach

In 2003 Diyagama East Estate was selected for a pilot project by 2nd CWSSP.

• The estate community was mobilized in to a Community Based Organization (CBO) named “Vedivelli,” to plan, construct and manage the Water Supply and Sanitation [WSS] project.
• Palm Foundation, a local NGO was selected as the Partner Organization to undertake the community mobilization and to facilitate the implementation of the water supply and sanitation project

Outcome

• Gravity fed, piped water supply scheme with appropriate water treatment facilities constructed to provide safe, reliable water service to the entire Division
• The Vedivelli CBO managed all construction activities obtaining the crucial trade union support.
• 82 sanitary latrines constructed
• A Sanitation Revolving Fund (SRF) created with the LKR 246,000 allocation. The CBO managed this fund providing credit to needy households meeting the entire latrine need of the Division. CBO is now in a position to provide credit facilities for income generating activities with savings in the SRF
• A community based hygiene promotion program implemented.
• A domestic environment program to introduce effective disposal of solid waste and waste water implemented.
• The CBO has formed four children’s societies to provide leadership training.

Funding in LKR Sri Lankan Rupees [1US$=LKR104]

Challenges Remaining

Lack of suitable water sources

Lessons Learnt

Effective coordination among estate management, trade unions, Pradeshiya Sabha and community is necessary for a successful outcome.