Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Japan pledges major grant for Kelani River flood control infrastructure
Tokyo has committed approximately 2.18 billion yen to upgrade pump stations in the Kelani River Basin, marking a significant investment in Sri Lanka's flood management capabilities. The assistance agreement was formalized during discussions between Japanese and Sri Lankan treasury officials.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The Government of Japan has announced a substantial grant of 2,179 million yen—equivalent to roughly 4,539 million rupees—to fund improvements to pump station infrastructure serving the Kelani River Basin. The commitment reflects Japan's ongoing support for critical water management infrastructure in Sri Lanka.
The agreement was finalized on October 28 through formal discussions between Japanese Ambassador Akio Isomata and Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, Secretary to the Treasury at Sri Lanka's Ministry of Finance and Planning. The project targets the enhancement and modernization of existing pump stations within the river basin, aimed at strengthening flood prevention and water management systems.
The Kelani River Basin, which encompasses densely populated areas in Western Province including parts of the Colombo metropolitan region, has long faced challenges from seasonal flooding. Enhanced pump station capacity is expected to improve drainage efficiency and reduce flood-related damage to communities and infrastructure in the basin.
This funding represents part of Japan's broader development assistance program in Sri Lanka, supporting infrastructure projects aligned with the country's sustainable development priorities.