Hon. Aravinda Senarath
2026-03-03
## Summary The Deputy Minister of Land and Irrigation responded to a parliamentary question regarding damage to a road and low-water crossing reported by the Wellakkal Thottam farmers' organisation. The Head Office directed the Ampara Director of Irrigation in November 2022 to submit cost estimates and include the works in the 2023 Annual Programme, but estimates were never received due to funding shortfalls, staff shortages, and the prioritisation of urgent water delivery infrastructure during Yala and Maha seasons. The Deputy Minister advised that the renovation has since been included in the 2026 priority list with funding expected to be allocated.
Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation, I answer as follows.
(a)
(i) The Wellakkal Thottam farmers’ organization reported the damage to the road and low-water crossing and requested temporary repairs.
(ii) By letter DI/AM/WG/AP/002/2022 dated 28.11.2022, the Director (Water Management), Head Office, informed the Ampara Director of Irrigation to submit estimates.
(iii) The same letter also instructed that the works be included in the 2023 Annual Programme.
(b)
(i) The estimates have not been received.
(ii) Although included in the 2023 priority lists, due to lack of funds, shortage of technical staff, and prioritization of urgent structural repairs necessary for water deliveries in Yala and Maha seasons, estimates were not prepared.
(iii) Renovation of the road and low-water crossing has been included in the 2026 priority list and funding is expected to be allocated.
(c) Not applicable in view of the above.