September 26, 2024 – Colombo: Sampath Bank proudly announces the commencement of the restoration of its 25th tank under the Bank’s flagship sustainability initiative, the ‘Wewata Jeewayak’ tank restoration programme with the technical support of Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka recently. This milestone was marked with a groundbreaking ceremony at Aralaganwila, encompassing the restoration of three significant tanks: Mangala Wewa, Samanala Wewa, and Magampura Wewa.
Since its inception in 2001 with the restoration of Udumaththala tank, the ‘Wewata Jeewayak’ project has been pivotal in transforming the environmental, social, and economic landscapes of Sri Lanka. Over the past 23 years, this initiative has acknowledged Sampath Bank’s commitment to addressing broader community needs beyond its business operations, reinforcing the bank’s distinct identity as a truly Sri Lankan bank deeply rooted in community ties built over 37 years.
Ayodhya Iddawela Perera, Managing Director of Sampath Bank, remarked, “As a national bank, we recognise our responsibility in restoring dilapidated tanks to ensure sustainable socio-economic progress for our communities. The ‘Wewata Jeewayak’ programme embodies our ethos of giving back to the society that has supported us throughout our journey. Through this initiative, we are not only rejuvenating the lives of farmers but also revitalising environment, thereby fostering a resilient and self-sufficient community.”
The restoration of the 38.7 acres of Mangala Wewa, Samanala Wewa, and Magampura Wewa tanks will benefit 352 farming families, granting them access to clean water. This initiative aligns with Sampath Bank’s Strategic Sustainability Framework, designed to address systemic issues hindering long-term socio-economic progress. The Project Management and Evaluation Process (PMEP) ensures that high-impact projects contribute to resolving key national issues, support socio-economic progress, and promote sustainable value creation.
The ‘Wewata Jeewayak’ programme aims to restore neglected and damaged irrigation tanks in dry and intermediate zones, providing small-scale rural farmers with a reliable, year-round water supply to irrigate their paddy lands. By empowering these farmers to benefit from both Yala and Maha cropping seasons, the programme significantly contributes to the upliftment of the local economy, enhancing national food security and preserving Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
Collaboration remains a cornerstone of Sampath Bank’s sustainability efforts, engaging with entities and organisations committed to socio-economic upliftment. Team Sampath is actively encouraged to participate in community work, amplifying the broader social impact.
As Sampath Bank embarks on the restoration of its 25th tank, it reaffirms its dedication to creating sustainable, positive change in the communities it serves, reflecting the true spirit of Sri Lanka.
