Advocacy and Inclusion through Travel at Padaviya Tank

By promoting access to recreational opportunities for persons with disabilities, society can foster greater awareness, understanding, and acceptance of diverse abilities. Inclusive recreational programs and facilities help break down barriers and promote social equality and inclusion for all individuals.

Overall, recognizing the importance of recreation and leisure time for people with disabilities is crucial for promoting their overall well-being, social inclusion, and quality of life. Providing accessible and inclusive recreational opportunities ensures that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in and enjoy the benefits of leisure activities alongside their peers.

Manique Gunaratne created the opportunity to a group of people with diverse disabilities to spend a leisure time at the Padaviya tank in Anuradhapura in December 2021.

The Padaviya Tank, located in the Anuradhapura District of Sri Lanka, is one of the largest and oldest irrigation reservoirs in the country, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient hydraulic civilization. Constructed during the reign of King Mahasen (274–301 CE), it was designed to support agriculture and provide a steady water supply to the surrounding areas, particularly in the dry zone.

The tank covers a vast expanse, with a catchment area of approximately 300 square kilometers, and plays a crucial role in irrigating paddy fields and sustaining the livelihoods of farming communities. It is fed by rainfall and small tributaries, storing water essential for the region's predominantly agrarian economy.

Apart from its historical and agricultural importance, the Padaviya Tank is a habitat for diverse wildlife, including water birds and aquatic species, making it significant for biodiversity. It is also a site of cultural and historical significance, reflecting the advanced engineering skills and foresight of ancient Sri Lankan rulers in water management.

 

Manique Gunaratne

Mobile / WhatsApp – 0094779571918