Abstract:
The Iranamadu Irrigation Scheme was initiated to enhance agricultural productivity, economic growth, and water resource management in the Kilinochchi District, Sri Lanka. This study assesses the scheme’s overall impact on agricultural sustainability, socio-economic well-being, and environmental conservation. Using a qualitative research approach, data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 13 key stakeholders, including farmers, project officers, and community leaders. Thematic analysis was employed to extract insights on infrastructure effectiveness, resource allocation, and community perceptions. Findings reveal that poor infrastructure quality, including the failure of the bund-raising project and inefficient water management practices, significantly affected irrigation reliability. Farmers relying on water-intensive crops such as paddy faced unpredictable water supply, leading to decreased agricultural output and financial instability. Social conflicts emerged due to competing water demands between the Kilinochchi and Jaffna communities, exacerbating regional inequalities. Additionally, environmental degradation, such as soil erosion and water contamination, was identified as a critical concern, highlighting the lack of climate resilience in project planning. The study underscores the necessity for improved governance, equitable resource distribution, and integration of climate-adaptive measures to ensure long-term sustainability. Strengthening stakeholder participation in decision-making and adopting advanced irrigation technologies can enhance project effectiveness. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, development agencies, and project planners involved in similar large-scale irrigation initiatives, ensuring that future projects achieve both developmental and environmental objectives.
