The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is assisting the Sri Lankan government in a project that aims to provide potable and irrigation water for dry zones in the North.
The project aims to divert water from the Mahaweli River system to the reservoirs in the North. Specifically, the project aims to retain excess water accumulated through the monsoon flows.
It is estimated that the project will provide 260 kilometers of improvements in canals, tunnels, and reservoirs by 2024. Furthermore, upon completion it is estimated that 1 billion cubic meters of water will reach the North annually with the hope of enhancing water and food security.
However, research has been underway in areas such as Delft Island, where local solutions are also being attempted.