Sri Lanka’s Water Resources

Sri Lanka’s water resources mainly consist of rainfall, rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater. The country receives a high amount of annual rainfall, which serves as the primary source of water. When considering global water distribution, about 97% of the Earth’s water is saltwater, while only about 3% is freshwater. Of this freshwater, less than 1% is easily accessible and suitable for human use.

Water pollution is caused by several factors, including industrial waste, domestic sewage, and agricultural chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides. In addition, activities like sand mining, deforestation, and urbanization also contribute to the contamination of water sources.

To address these issues, several measures can be taken. Proper waste management is essential to prevent pollutants from entering water bodies. Industries should treat their waste before releasing it into the environment. Reducing the use of harmful agricultural chemicals and promoting eco-friendly farming practices can also help. Protecting forests and raising public awareness about water conservation are equally important.

Overall, safeguarding water resources is crucial for maintaining environmental balance and ensuring human health and sustainability.