National Policy on Drinking Water, 2024.

Sri Lanka’s National Policy on Drinking Water has been formulated to provide a robust framework and mechanism to meet the goal of universal access to drinking water. It highlights the importance of ensuring water security and overcome climate change challenges. The policy principles are laid down which recognises access to safe drinking water as a basic human right. The preparation of a comprehensive national master plan for drinking water is envisaged and policies relating to safety of water resources, rainwater harvesting, artificial recharge, water supply services, water quality surveillance and mechanisms needed for efficient and effective coordination and collaboration amongst agencies are included. The Policy goals, applicability and scope are defined. Policy implementation strategies are provided along with responsibility of various authorities such as local government authorities, provincial councils, the Ministry Responsible for Drinking Water and Sanitation, the National Water Supply & Drainage Board, Department of National Community Water Supply, Community Based Organizations, Plantation Human Development Trust, the National Water Resources Council, Water Resources Board, Central Environment Authority, and the beneficiaries.