Traditional Water Management Systems in Sri Lanka: A Legacy of Sustainability and Climate Resilience for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management

This chapter probes into the historical significance of traditional water management systems in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, highlighting their resilience and adaptability in the face of climate variability. By examining the intricate network of water management practices that sustained the ancient hydraulic civilization of Anuradhapura for over two millennia, this chapter uncovers valuable lessons for disaster risk reduction, preparedness, and management. Further chapter emphasizes the potential of reintroducing these proven technologies as a climate change adaptation strategy, it underscores their role in mitigating water-related disasters and building climate resilience. Traditional water management systems in Sri Lanka have proven their sustainability and resilience over centuries, adapting to climate variability and blending manmade ecosystems with the natural environment. Anuradhapura, an ancient city, having a hydraulic civilization, now identified as a world heritage, spanning over two millennia, thrived due to its mastery of water resources. Traditional water management practices evolved to overcome the challenges posed by the prevailing dry zone climate. These practices consisted of reservoir systems, cascading small to large reservoirs, and canal networks blended with the natural drainage patterns, collectively designed to capture, store, and distribute water effectively. Basically, cascading systems were developed and managed with the community participation to harness the overland flow as well as subsurface flows to keep up the water table for a desirable level to facilitate edible floral communities, replenish groundwater resources, and finally support all living beings seeking livelihoods. A single bund canal system was developed for the irrigation purposes, running from the upstream towards downstream along the interface between the land strip where it meets the paddy fields and adjoining hilly areas. This principle was used to build even larger single bund canal systems to implement transboundary water diversions. Additionally, this chapter explores the feasibility of implementing these proven technologies as a climate change adaptation strategy. Anuradhapura's water management systems provide valuable lessons for navigating the complexities of modern water management. As we confront the challenges of a changing climate and growing water scarcity, the Village Tank Cascade Systems (VTCSs) serve as a beacon of hope, guiding us towards a more sustainable and equitable water future.