Empowering Communities: Putting an End to Water Scarcity in Unaapaana

Located in the Ampara District, Unaapaana in the Padiyathalawa DS division is a quaint village home to over 1000 residents, mainly comprising hardworking farmers and daily wage laborers. However, the community faces a significant challenge daily - the lack of access to clean drinking water.

Currently, the residents must cope with a contaminated groundwater supply filled with calcium deposits, leading to an alarming outbreak of kidney disease. In fact, 18 patients in this small village are currently undergoing treatment for kidney-related issues, while others have already succumbed to the illness. Moreover, the absence of a reliable clean water source forces the villagers to undertake arduous multikilometer treks or pay exorbitant prices to obtain the essential resource from a water truck that visits periodically.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the community had reached out to Gammadda, appealing for their assistance in installing a Reverse Osmosis (RO) water purification plant. This vital initiative aims to ensure a consistent supply of clean drinking water, free from harmful pollutants, which will significantly improve the well-being and health of the villagers.

The proposed plan entails utilizing an existing water source in Unaapaana, albeit contaminated, to set up the RO plant. Additionally, a strategically located water filling station will be established, providing access to clean drinking water not only for Unaapaana but also for nearby villages. The foundation stone was laid on the 15th of July 2023, in a groundbreaking ceremony.

By implementing this project, Gammadda aims to address the prevailing epidemic of kidney disease and other waterborne illnesses and enhance the overall quality of life for the local population. To ensure the longevity and success of the initiative, a preventive and periodic maintenance plan will be introduced, overseen by the formation of the Gammadda Saviya Society.

As Gammadda responds to the heartfelt request of Unaapaana's residents, it paves the way for a brighter and healthier future, illustrating the power of collective action and compassion in transforming communities.