Being an agricultural country, Sri Lanka is known for its effective irrigation system. As you travel Sri Lanka, you may come across a collection of reservoirs built by ancient kings and the modern rulers in order to preserve water, generate electricity and benefit agriculture.
Here are some of the noteworthy reservoirs located around the island.
Rantabe tank
Referred to as the smallest tank in the country, this is built across the Uma Oya and a part of the Mahaweli Development Project. The main water supply to the tank is from Uma Oya. The reservoir has an area of 1095 sq km.
Kotmale reservoir
This is where the upper Kotmale hydro power plant is located. It is situated between Talawakele and Nuwera Eliya. With a capacity of 800 000 cubic metres this is the 3rd largest hydro power plant in the country. Spread among lush green hill country, this an eye-catching sight often included in most tour packages exploring the hills of Sri Lanka such as those offered by Nkar Travel House.
Samanala Wewa reservoir
Located in the Sabaragamuwa district this is the 2nd largest reservoir in the country. The dam is located 400m above sky level this is located within the Uda Walewa basin.
Victoria Dam
This is the largest hydro power plant in the country and was built under the Mahaweli Development project in 1978 under the leadership of President Jayawardana. The dam is 520 metres long and 122m tall with an area of 22.7 sq km.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+
