In the village of Kalmadu Nagar, located in Northern Sri Lanka's Kilinochchi district, the Kalmadu Kulam reservoir has been a crucial resource for local residents. For years, families like Vellachamy's faced challenges due to fluctuating water levels affecting their inland fishing livelihoods. However, recent improvements have revitalized this key irrigation source.
Originally restored in the 1950s, Kalmadu Kulam underwent significant upgrades over the decades. The last major renovation was during Sri Lanka’s civil war in 2003 but was interrupted by conflict in 2009 when a bombing breached the dam. Temporary repairs made in 2011 were insufficient to restore its full capacity.
Recognizing the need for a comprehensive solution, the Irrigation Department of the Northern Province initiated a rehabilitation project with support from the World Bank-funded Integrated Watershed and Water Resources Management Project. This effort ran from 2022 to 2024 and transformed Kalmadu Dam into an example of modern water management.
The project implemented innovative solutions to enhance functionality and safety. A special wall using Soil-Cement-Bentonite was constructed to reduce leakage—only the second time this technology has been used in Sri Lanka. To prevent wave erosion, rocks and fabric were added to the upstream slope, and the dam height was increased by two feet to prevent overflow.
Safety measures included constructing a drainage system at the dam's base and installing devices to measure water drainage for better oversight. A road was built for easier access and maintenance, while a solar-powered sprinkler system helps maintain grass on the downstream side.
These improvements have significantly impacted local agriculture and fishing communities:
- Agricultural productivity improved with nearly a 10% increase in yield following renovations.
- Fisher families now enjoy sustainable incomes due to better water conditions.
- Groundwater recharge has improved water supply consistency for nearby villages.
- The project provided learning opportunities for young engineers and facilitated knowledge sharing among stakeholders.
Plans are underway to further enhance reservoir capacity, promising greater stability for Kalmadu Nagar and Kilinochchi district residents. For locals, this restoration is more than infrastructure; it symbolizes hope and resilience as they look forward to a brighter future.