Conflicts over Water Use & Altered Hydrology

The ecological balance of Parakrama Samudra is highly sensitive to water retention time—the duration water remains in the reservoir. Reduced retention times diminish plankton productivity, weakening the base of the aquatic food chain.

Water level fluctuations, essential for fish breeding (such as Oreochromis mossambicus), have been disrupted since the Mahaweli water diversion, resulting in declining fish yields.

Breakwater Mismanagement

Farmers have strongly opposed plans to build a paved jogging track on the ancient breakwater, describing it as destructive to the protective structure. They warn that failure to repair and maintain the breakwater could endanger aquatic ecosystems and agriculture.

Lack of Social Security & Support

Inland fishers, like their marine counterparts, face severe hardships without a reliable social safety net. The former Fisher’s Pension and Social Security Scheme is largely defunct, with minimal enrollment and inadequate benefits, forcing many elderly fishers to continue working out of necessity.

Although discussions on a new contributory pension scheme are underway, fishers fear that complicated enrollment procedures—such as long travel or waiting times—may discourage participation.

• DATE : 12th of September 2025
• STARTING TIME : 6.30 AM
• DISTANCE FROM NICD: 115 km
• TRAVELLING TIME: 3 hours
• Maximum number of participants is 50
• Breakfast will be provided at NICD or hotel
• Lunch will be provided on the site, local food and fruits will be provided by the community.