Hazardous chemicals in groundwater resources and water losses from reservoirs during dry spells other than evaporation

Objectives

Desertification and Groundwater

To quantify the amount of hazardous chemicals, present in the groundwater resources of Sri Lanka
To develop mathematical models to estimate water losses from reservoirs during dry spells other than evaporation.
To identify appropriate groundwater recharging areas and identify appropriate technological measures to recharge groundwater with the community participation
To develop policy initiatives and guidelines to address groundwater degradation and establish community-based groundwater recharging   
Polluting groundwater with harzdus chemicals could be identified as one of the main problems prevailing in dry zone areas where most of the primary production of the country is taking place. Adequate studies have not been conducted to investigate movements of these harzdus chemicals with the groundwater and tendency of concentrating particular areas, even unidentified chronical kidney deices is prevailing in these areas. Further to that, there are not enough research studies carried out to investigate the ways and means of loosing reservoir waters other than direct evaporation. Therefore, Ministry of environment and wildlife resources has invited universities, and other research and development organizations to conduct such studies to build up awareness about groundwater pollution and movements in Sri Lanka. Ministry is also looking for funding opportunities from various national and international funding agencies to support scientists to carryout their studies.