Sri Lanka to get US83mn to improve dam safety

May 16, 2015 (LBO) - Sri Lanka's will get an additional 83 million US dollars to improve safety at high risk dams, expanding an existing program covering the most vulnerable 32 reservoirs, the World Bank said.



The dam network in Sri Lanka comprises over 350 large and medium dams. Many of these dams are aging and have various structural deficiencies and short comings in operation and monitoring facilities.

"Considering that water is a key natural resource that has to be managed efficiently, we are pleased that we are able to provide assistance towards the improvement of the safety of dams," Françoise Clottes, Country Director Sri Lanka and the Maldives said in a statement.

Joop Stoutjesdijk, Lead Engineer and Task Team Leader at World Bank said additional funds will bring 30 new dams into the project and allows work at 14 of the original to be completed.