Second Largest Water Supply Project in Sri Lanka Ready to Commence

On 10 July 2026, a ceremonial groundbreaking of the Anuradhapura North Water Supply Project – Phase II funded by JICA was held in Kebithigowella in the presence of H.E. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. It is the second-largest ongoing water supply project in Sri Lanka in partnership with the Ministry of Housing, Construction and Water Supply and the National Water Supply & Drainage Board (NWSDB).

Upon the ceremony, the foundation stone was laid by the dignitaries, including Mr. Kamoshida Naoaki, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of Japan to Sri Lanka, and Mr. Kuronuma Kenji, Chief Representative of the JICA Sri Lanka Office.

Once completed, the project will expand access to safe drinking water in the Padaviya, Horowpothana, Kahatagasdigiliya, Kebithigollewa, Medawachchiya and Rambewa Divisional Secretariat Divisions of Anuradhapura District. These areas have long relied on unsafe groundwater sources associated with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and dental and skeletal fluorosis. The project is expected to develop water treatment facilities with a capacity of 34,800 cubic meters per day as well as the transmission and distribution networks. Combined with the first phase of the project, JICA’s projects are expected to benefit approximately 75,000 families across 164 Grama Niladhari Divisions (GNDs) in total.

Through these initiatives, JICA reaffirms Japan’s enduring partnership with Sri Lanka and its continued commitment to supporting the country’s recovery, sustainable development, and the well-being of its people. JICA also remains dedicated to ensuring the successful and timely completion of the project to build a healthier and more secure future for the people of Anuradhapura.