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Ralapanawa: Ralapanawa Struck Water

With funds raised by the pupils of Sibford School Aid Sri Lanka is making a well in Ralapanawa to provide water to this school and village in Sri Lanka’s dry zone.

There has been much excitement in Ralapanawa this week caused by the drilling of the well which will soon supply all the families in the village with water, putting an end to the 5km trip they currently make, often several times a day, to collect water.

At a meeting of the villagers and teachers, Claire explained the reasons for the site and type of well which had been selected for this project. This was necessary as the original proposal was for a dug well about 30 m from the site and it was important that they should be informed of the reasons for change. The meeting was also a great opportunity for the Aid Sri Lanka team to meet the villagers, speaking with them, sharing laughs and breaking down the barriers of the “foreign agency.”

The expert team of drillers and geologists undertook used a large rig to drill to 51 metres, working from the early morning until well after dark. By the time they stopped they had drilled though many rock types and 4 water fractures. Each time a fracture was hit water spurted out of the tube to cheers from the crowd. The geologists analysed the fragments of rock that were released throughout the process, revealing rock types and the implications for water quality. By the time the drilling stopped they were happy that they had a good yield, enough to cater for all the village and that the salinity was very low for the area and was drinkable. Analysis of the water will reveal if there is a need for a filter to be added to improve the quality further.

The next step will be a seminar for the villagers covering water use and sanitation and a session to train five of the locals in well maintenance.

A number of the villagers have been present during the process so have overseen the work, being included.

The women of the village provided delicious meals for the workers, demonstrating an unbelievable generosity for people who have so little.

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