The Gin–Nilwala Diversion Project is a major water management initiative in Sri Lanka designed to address chronic water scarcity in the Southeastern Dry Zone. The project aims to redirect excess water from the Gin and Nilwala river basins during periods of high flow to support irrigation, drinking, and industrial needs.

Key Features:

• Water Diversion: Supplies 145 MCM annually for domestic and industrial use and 120 MCM for irrigation.
• Infrastructure Development:
  • Construction of Madugate, Ampanagala, and Kotapola reservoirs, affecting a total of 140 families and inundating 121.3 hectares.
  • Extensive network of tunnels and canals, including an 18-km tunnel from Madugate and a 30.8-km canal for water distribution.
• Reservoir Enhancements: Muruthawela Reservoir will be raised to increase its capacity by 7 MCM for improved irrigation.

This project is crucial for enhancing water security and boosting agricultural productivity in one of Sri Lanka’s driest regions