Govt Moves to Protect Tank Reserves from Encroachment
- CNL Reporter
- June 3, 2025
- News
- Govt
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The government is preparing legal amendments to safeguard tank-based reserves and curb illegal encroachment, including by politically connected individuals, according to the Ministry of Land and Irrigation.
Deputy Minister Dr. Susil Ranasinghe revealed that many tank reserve lands are currently occupied, often due to the lack of clearly marked boundaries and loopholes in existing laws.
Some individuals have acquired deeds—legally or through political influence—for these lands. Unlike tanks managed by the Mahaweli Authority, most reserves under the Irrigation Department are not officially gazetted, making them vulnerable to misuse. Dr. Ranasinghe noted that the ministry has already directed the Irrigation Department to halt new settlements in such areas.
Plans are underway to amend the Irrigation Ordinance of 1946, and divisional-level discussions will address the status of current occupants. Officials emphasize the need for proper consultation before issuing land deeds to prevent further encroachment.
