Rural water supply district development plans Matara, Ratnapura and Badulla Districts : volume 1 : summary : volume 2 : institutions, policy, implementation strategy

Three districts in Sri Lanka, Matara, Ratnapura and Badula, with a total population of 2,486,000, have been chosen for a new water supply and sanitation project. The population is primarily rural, with some estates and towns. At present only 46% of the total population has access to acceptable water supplies, some of which are government owned, and repair and maintenance are variable. Both surface and groundwater systems will be constructed; if there is a reasonably close spring or river, a piped distribution system will be implemented which delivers water to public taps or household systems. For smaller villages, tubewells and shallow wells will be dug. At present, 81% of the households have latrines, either water seal or pit; most of which have been built and financed with no external assistance. The project will continue and support this self-help tradition. The project is divided into four phases; the inception phase, survey phase, district development plans phase and the priority investment plans phase. Institutional roles and responsibilities are addressed, both governmental and NGOs. Women are to be involved as workers, trainers, and professionals and will be involved in decision-making in all phases of the project.