Restoration work on the historic Elahera Anicut commenced yesterday (10) as part of the national initiative “Wari Mahima – Our Heritage.” 

The project aims to preserve and restore the ancient irrigation structure, which is a designated world heritage site.

The launch ceremony was attended by Agriculture, Livestock, Lands and Irrigation Minister K.D. Lal Kantha, Minister of Buddhist, Religious and Cultural Affairs Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, and Deputy Minister of Housing Construction and Water Supply T.B. Sarath. The initial phase of the restoration is allocated a budget of Rs. 309,144,000.

Minister Lal Kantha emphasised the significance of paddy cultivation in the Polonnaruwa District, where approximately 90 percent of the land depends on rice farming. 

He assured farmers that adequate fertilizer stocks have been procured and that distribution for the upcoming Yala season has already begun through agrarian service centres. He also noted that private institutions have been authorised to distribute fertilizer supplies, ensuring farmers’ needs are met.

Addressing the broader agricultural strategy, the minister highlighted the importance of economic diversification for farmers. “If a farmer can rear even five dairy cows, it adds valuable income. 

We must encourage alternative income sources instead of relying solely on paddy cultivation. Income diversification is essential for sustainable livelihoods,” he stated.