State Minister of Investment Promotion Inaugurates Water Supply Facility in Diocese of Colombo

In a bid to address the dire need for clean drinking water, Believers Eastern Church Diocese of Colombo, inaugurated a new water supply facility in a remote village on June 19, 2023. The inauguration ceremony, presided over by the State Minister of Investment Promotion, Hon. Dilum Amunugama, M.P., marked a significant milestone in the battle against water scarcity in the region.

For years, the lack of access to safe drinking water has plagued the inhabitants of this isolated village, subjecting them to immense hardships. The villagers were forced to embark on arduous journeys, walking long distances in search of this basic necessity. With approximately 650 families affected by the water crisis, the struggle to secure clean water became a relentless battle that involved reaching out to various authorities and organizations, all to no avail.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Diocese of Colombo took the initiative to provide a sustainable solution that would alleviate the suffering of the villagers. In order to complete the construction of the cement water tank and lay the pipelines connecting the main tank to the villagers’ homes, the community members willingly contributed their labor, demonstrating their willingness to support the initiative.

The inauguration ceremony was a momentous occasion for the villagers, who had long endured the hardships brought about by water scarcity. Hon. Dilum Amunugama, M.P., unveiled the facility amidst an atmosphere of hope and gratitude.

Most Ven. Varakagoda Sri Gnanasara Thero, temple chief priest, most Rev.Jagadeeshan Kurukkal, Umer Kathab Massith, Muslim Chief Priest, Most Rev. F.M. Mubarak, Delthota Divisional Secretary, Mrs. Athama Dilrukshi Jayarathne, Galaha Police Chief Officer in Charge, Former Pradesha Sabaha Chairmen, Divisional Secretary Staff, Grama Niladari, and Community Members of Delthota were present on the occasion.

Local residents expressed their joy and relief, expressing their gratitude to the church.

Mrs. Pariyamma, aged 49, expressed her long-standing struggle to access clean water, stating, “We faced immense difficulties in obtaining safe drinking water for a considerable period. Instead of using drinking water, we resorted to using drainage water, which made us ill. Even young children had to consume this water. We are immensely grateful to the Believers Eastern Church for providing us with clean water.”

Member of Parliament Saman Darmasiri Bandara said, “It is unfortunate that the government did not step in to support the residents of this village in constructing such a project. However, thanks to the efforts of the Believers Eastern Church team, the villagers now have access to clean water. Let us never forget the assistance they provided on this day.”

Mrs. Radha, aged 53, shared her community’s appreciation for the project, stating, “This initiative has been incredibly beneficial for our community. Previously, we had to travel long distances to fetch water, but now we can receive it right where we live. We are thankful for the support extended by the Believers Eastern Church.”