The Mahaweli Water Security Investment Program is not only focused on developing irrigation infrastructure but also prioritizes environmental and wildlife conservation. A significant portion of the project’s investment has been allocated to protecting wildlife habitats, particularly in the North Central and North Western provinces, where irrigation development overlaps with conservation zones. To ensure the sustainability of these efforts, a National Wildlife Management Plan is being implemented alongside the construction activities and is updated annually.
A review of the updated plan was held on February 27, 2025, at the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Center, with the participation of key stakeholders, including the Secretary to the Governor of the North Central Province, leading conservation experts, officials from the Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Central Environmental Authority, and GAs from Divisional secretariat offices. The plan is guided by a National Advisory Committee consisting of wildlife specialists who ensure that conservation strategies align with scientific best practices.
Among the key conservation measures being implemented are GPS radio collaring of elephants for monitoring, removal of invasive plant species, establishment of wildlife feeding zones, installation of seasonal electric fences around farmlands, construction and maintenance of elephant fences, restoration of small reservoirs in forest areas (kulu wewa), and extensive awareness programs at national and community levels. These initiatives aim to minimize human-elephant conflicts and protect both wildlife and ecosystems while ensuring the success of the irrigation development program.
With these integrated conservation strategies, the Mahaweli Water Security Investment Program continues to promote a sustainable balance between infrastructure development and environmental protection, fostering long-term harmony between communities and wildlife.
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