2026-02-19 / Oral Question: Drinking Water Facilities in Kakkachchiveddan and Batticaloa (Q. 2/2026)
Hon. (Dr.) Susil Ranasinghe - Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply
2026-02-19
Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply Dr. Susil Ranasinghe acknowledged that nationally, water production falls short of demand, with many areas receiving only intermittent, low-pressure supply for a few hours daily. He stated he would consult with the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) to assess the feasibility of continued water supply from Ampara to identified areas and determine the best technical solution. Regarding a proposed package plant at Mandur in Batticaloa, the Minister noted that numerous similar proposals exist nationwide requiring significant funding, and committed to examining what action is feasible in consultation with the NWSDB.
Hon. Member, I cannot give firm, location-specific confirmations immediately beyond the official data provided by the NWSDB. Nationally, production lags demand: in many areas water is supplied only a few hours a day with low pressure. We will therefore discuss with the NWSDB whether continued supply from Ampara to the identified areas is feasible and what the best technical solution is.
Regarding your package plant proposal at Mandur, many such proposals exist countrywide; these require significant funding. I will discuss with the NWSDB and examine what action is feasible in Batticaloa.