JICA handed Over the Sanitary Facility Complex Constructed under JICA Partnership Program with Japanese Private Sector

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has officially handed over the Sanitary Facility Complex, constructed through the JICA Partnership Program in collaboration with leading Japanese companies Eiwa Land Environment Co., Ltd. and Yasugi Co., Ltd. This remarkable development includes a Self-treatment Type Flush Bio-toilet complex situated at the Polonnaruwa World Heritage site, managed by the Central Cultural Fund (CCF). The handover ceremony was held on October 16, 2023, attended by prominent figures, including Japanese Ambassador H.E. Mizukoshi Hideaki, JICA Chief Representative Mr. Tetsuya Yamada, Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs and Minister of Irrigation, Hon. Roshan Ranasinghe M.P., Secretary to the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Mr. Somarathna Vidanapathirana, Director General of the Central Cultural Fund Prof. Gamini Ranasinghe, District Secretary Polonnaruwa, Mr. W.A. Dharmasiri and Director of Development of the Central Cultural Fund Archt. Ms. Sumedha Mathota.

The Self-treatment Type Flush Bio-toilet, also known as “Aquamake”, represents a cutting-edge wastewater treatment system. It ensures colorless and odorless wastewater with zero coliforms and over 90% purification achieved through innovative methods like the use of oyster shells. Furthermore, the treated water is efficiently circulated and reused within the toilet facilities, eliminating the need for supplementary water and any discharge, ensuring a high level of sanitation.

Prior to this initiative, the Polonnaruwa World Heritage site managed by the CCF faced challenges related to its limited sewerage infrastructure. The existing facilities were discharging untreated wastewater, causing negative impact on undiscovered and underground ruins within the Polonnaruwa cultural site. In response to this critical issue, JICA provided the timely support by leveraging the expertise of Japanese companies.