The Thalpitigala Reservoir Project is an essential part of the Uma Oya Downstream Multipurpose Development Project (UOMDP), designed to optimize water resource management in the Badulla District of Sri Lanka’s Uva Province. The project focuses on constructing a reservoir to mitigate potential water deficits in the lower regions of the Uma Oya due to upstream diversions from the Puhulpola and Diaraba reservoirs.

Project Overview

• Location: Wasanagama, Badulla District, Uva Province
• Reservoir Capacity: 15.56 million cubic meters (MCM)
• Dam Specifications: 280 meters long and 45.6 meters high Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC) dam
• Water Diversion: A 1.1 km tunnel will be constructed to divert water stored in the reservoir for power generation and irrigation purposes.

Objectives

The main objective of the Thalpitigala Reservoir Project is to address potential water shortages in the lower areas of the Uma Oya due to water diversions upstream. The project ensures the availability of water for irrigation, power generation, and possibly drinking water for surrounding communities.

Key Project Benefits

• Electricity Generation: The project is expected to generate 51.6 GWh of electricity annually, contributing significantly to the national grid.
• Irrigation Support: It will provide irrigation water for 2,000 acres of existing farmland and an additional 1,000 acres of newly cultivated land, enhancing agricultural productivity in the region.
• Water Supply: Plans are underway with the National Water Supply and Drainage Board to develop a drinking water supply project for the Kandaketiya Divisional Secretariat division.
• Infrastructure Development: The project includes constructing a new road from Uva Paranagama to Kandaketiya, improving local infrastructure and connectivity.
• Wildlife Conservation: A wildlife conservation program is included to address environmental concerns and ensure the protection of local ecosystems.
• Recreational Opportunities: The reservoir will also create opportunities for recreational activities, potentially enhancing tourism and leisure pursuits in the area.

Project Details

• Project Cost: USD 174 million
• Funding Agency: EXIM Bank of China
• Project Duration: 4 years, expected to be completed by 2024
• Employer/Client: Ministry of Irrigation
• Contractor: China Sinohydro Corporation Ltd.

Current Project Status

• Loan Agreement: A loan agreement has been signed with the EXIM Bank of China to finance the project.
• IEE Approval: The Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) has been approved, ensuring that the project adheres to environmental standards.
• Resettlement: Lands for resettlement have been identified, and the compensation and land acquisition process is in progress. Socio-economic studies and the preparation of a Resettlement Action Plan are also underway.

Purpose and Strategic Importance

The Thalpitigala Reservoir is strategically important for managing the water resources in the Badulla District. By storing and diverting water efficiently, the reservoir helps mitigate the effects of the upstream Uma Oya project on downstream water availability. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in sediment control at the Mahaweli at Rantabe, reducing the travel distance between Central Uva and the Eastern regions by facilitating better water flow management across the Uma Oya.

The Mahaweli Consultancy Bureau (MCB) has played a vital role in the development of the Thalpitigala Reservoir Project. Notably, MCB was responsible for conducting the Initial Environmental Examination (IEE), which was a critical step in assessing the potential environmental impacts of the project. The IEE ensured that the project complied with environmental regulations and identified necessary mitigation measures to minimize any adverse effects on the local environment.