Ridi Bendi Ela Irrigation Scheme Explained

Ridi Bendi Ela is a major irrigation scheme in North Western Province, Sri Lanka. It is located within the Nikaweretiya Divisional Secretary division in the Kurunagala district, a major part of which is in the Deduru Oya river basin. The main reservoir of the irrigation scheme is the Magalle Wewa which is located in Nikawaratiya. The reservoir has a total capacity of 7480acre.ft and a depth at the spilling level of 17feet. The total length of the tank bund is 5463feet. The 23 km long Ridi Bendi Ela feeder canal provides nearly 80% of annual water inflow.^[1]

History

The original irrigation reservoir and feeder canal from Daduru Oya were constructed by King Mahasena. The most remarkable era in the history of Sri Lankan irrigation is King Parakkramabahu’s Reign (1153-1186 A.D.)^[2]

Project area

The project area is divided into 11 farmer organisations:

• Katagamuwa
• Magallegama
• Ibbawala
• Mada Ela
• Balagollagama
• Budumuththawa
• Kabellawa
• Heelogama
• Diullawa
• Danduwa
• Tharanagolla

Notes and References

1. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/224952497_Evaluating_the_performance_of_farmer_companies_in_Sri_Lanka_A_case_study_of_Ridi_Bendi_Ela_Farmer_Company Evaluating the performance of farmer companies in Sri Lanka: A case study of Ridi Bendi Ela Farmer Company
2. Book: Improving agricultural productivity for poverty alleviation through integrated service provision with public-private sector partnerships: Examples and issues. Intizar. Hussain. R. Perera, L.. 2004. IWMI. 978-92-9090-536-3. en.