A large-scale operation to demarcate the boundaries of major irrigation reservoirs in the Anuradhapura district was launched on July 19, beginning with the historic Nuwarawewa tank, as the authorities move to tackle widespread encroachments and safeguard the structural integrity of ancient tank bunds.
The emergency initiative, prompted by mounting concern over unauthorised development and the use of bunds as public roads, comes amid intense debate between the District Coordinating Committee (DCC) and irrigation officials.
At the heart of the issue is the safety and preservation of ancient reservoirs such as Nuwarawewa and Thisawewa — both in Anuradhapura city and the sacred city area.
According to the District Irrigation Director, the bunds of both reservoirs have been closed to all vehicular traffic due to their fragile condition.
Nuwarawewa, believed to have been constructed during the reign of King Gajabahu I (113–143 CE), was last rehabilitated in 1889. Officials said that multiple seepages have since been detected along the nearly four-mile-long bund, which is under constant surveillance due to fears of cracking or breaching.
“The structural health of 14 major tanks in the district is increasingly under threat,” the Director said. “Encroachments on tank reservations — both upstream and downstream — have added immense pressure on already weakened embankments.”
The illegal occupation of tank reservations has become a significant concern in recent years, with over 1,000 instances identified around the Nuwarawewa tank alone. These include unauthorised constructions such as tourist hotels, circuit bungalows, private homes, and even Government buildings — including official residences of the North Central Province Governor and Chief Minister.
