The Southern Development Authority (SDA) began paddy cultivation in abandoned fields under its Kethaka Mahima Project on Monday. It is being carried out under the direction of SDA Chairman Methsiri de Silva.
The project commenced at a 25-acre field in Meepawala, Galle. The said field has been abandoned for 15 years owing to the absence of a proper irrigation scheme. The field was chosen in response to demands made by the Meepawala Farmers’ Collective.
Meepawala Farmers’ Collective Chairman Rajapaksa Kalansooriya inaugurated the project at a sod-cutting ceremony attended by Southern Province Governor Hemal Gunasekara and SDA Chairman Methsiri de Silva.
The Southern Development Authority is also to provide farmers with paddy, fertilizer, and modern farming equipment.
“The irrigation scheme connected to the field is to be renovated swiftly, and the SDA will bear the cost of tractor hires for the cultivation,” de Silva said.
“All abandoned paddy fields in the Galle District will be cultivated soon, and the project will then be expanded to the Matara and Hambantota districts as well,” he added.
Southern Province Governor Hemal Gunasekara said he supports the project as he “firmly believes” in the development of paddy cultivation.
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