National Water Supply and Drainage Board

NWSDB logo

National Water Supply and Drainage Board

The National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) is a government agency in Sri Lanka responsible for the provision of safe drinking water and sanitation services to the public. Established in 1975, the NWSDB operates under the purview of the Ministry of Water Supply and Drainage.

History

The NWSDB was formed in response to the growing need for a centralized body to manage water supply and sanitation services in Sri Lanka. Prior to its establishment, these services were managed by various local authorities, leading to inconsistencies in service delivery. The NWSDB was created to streamline operations and ensure uniformity in the provision of water and sanitation services across the country.

Functions

The primary functions of the NWSDB include:

• Planning, designing, and constructing water supply and drainage systems.
• Operating and maintaining water supply and drainage infrastructure.
• Ensuring the quality of drinking water through regular monitoring and testing.
• Providing technical assistance and support to local authorities and other stakeholders.
• Promoting water conservation and efficient use of water resources.

Organizational Structure

The NWSDB is headed by a Chairman and a Board of Directors, who are appointed by the President of Sri Lanka. The day-to-day operations are managed by a General Manager, supported by various departments and regional offices.

Projects and Initiatives

The NWSDB undertakes numerous projects and initiatives to improve water supply and sanitation services in Sri Lanka. Some of the key projects include:

• The Greater Colombo Water Supply Project
• The Kandy City Wastewater Management Project
• The Jaffna and Kilinochchi Water Supply and Sanitation Project

These projects aim to enhance the infrastructure, increase coverage, and improve the quality of services provided to the public.

Challenges

The NWSDB faces several challenges in its operations, including:

• Aging infrastructure and the need for modernization.
• Financial constraints and the need for sustainable funding mechanisms.
• Addressing the impacts of climate change on water resources.
• Ensuring equitable access to water and sanitation services for all communities.

Future Plans

The NWSDB has outlined several future plans to address these challenges and improve service delivery. These include:

• Expanding the coverage of water supply and sanitation services to underserved areas.
• Investing in new technologies and infrastructure to enhance efficiency and reliability.
• Strengthening partnerships with local and international stakeholders.
• Promoting public awareness and education on water conservation and sanitation practices.

See Also

• Ministry of Water Supply and Drainage
• Water supply and sanitation in Sri Lanka
• Water resources management in Sri Lanka