A discussion aimed at creating a mechanism for the continuous desilting of ponds in the Jaffna District and initiating desilting on a trial basis was held under the chairmanship of the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan, at the Governor’s Secretariat on Monday evening (08.09.2025).
The Governor emphasized that desilting ponds is a vital part of the strategy to protect groundwater in Jaffna and stated that the objective of the discussion was to explore mechanisms for this purpose. He noted at the outset that he expected advice from relevant officials on this matter.
It was pointed out during the discussion that the mechanism for desilting ponds appears to be a long-term process, which discourages volunteers who wish to participate in these efforts. Additionally, it was highlighted that while various funding sources are willing to support the initiative outside of government funding, the approval process remains complicated. Furthermore, it was noted that with the rainy season approaching in a few weeks, continuing these activities would be challenging. A request was made to immediately grant approvals for desilting the Kantharodai pond, for which permission had already been sought.
It was decided during the discussion that the Northern Province Irrigation Department would immediately grant permission for desilting the Kantharodai pond, and the Divisional Secretary would provide approval for transporting the excavated soil. This work is to be initiated swiftly to instill confidence among volunteers involved in pond desilting efforts.
Given that the majority of ponds in the Jaffna District fall under the Department of Agrarian Services, it was advised to grant immediate approvals for desilting where feasible and to prepare a prioritized list of other ponds for desilting, along with appropriate justifications, to be submitted to the headquarters.
Furthermore, the Governor directed that under the leadership of the Secretary of the Northern Province Ministry of Agriculture, all relevant departments should be coordinated to hold discussions and establish a permanent mechanism for pond desilting.
The discussion was attended by the Secretary of the Northern Province Ministry of Agriculture, the Additional District Secretary of Jaffna District, the Director of the Northern Province Irrigation Department, the Assistant Commissioner of Agrarian Services, the Deputy Director of Agriculture, irrigation engineers, and volunteers coordinating pond desilting activities.
