A delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) visited Palai to inspect the progress of a water supply project currently being implemented by the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB). The project seeks to improve access to clean drinking water across the Jaffna peninsula, particularly in areas affected by limited or poor-quality water sources.
During the site visit, the ADB team, along with NWSDB officials, reviewed infrastructure developments and interacted with local communities. Residents in the area anticipate improved access to water, especially during the dry season, once the new supply lines are operational.
The inspection coincided with broader discussions on regional water distribution strategies. At the Jaffna District Coordinating Committee (DCC) meeting held on March 25, concerns were raised regarding the long-term feasibility and inclusivity of the project. Questions were posed about the adequacy of the current distribution model and the potential for alternative approaches to maximize reach.
The NWSDB stated that the existing plan aims to provide access to approximately 300,000 of the 600,000 residents in the peninsula, with phased expansion envisioned. The partial coverage has spurred continued dialogue among policymakers about the need to ensure the project’s scalability and impact.
