The United Nations’ World Water Day is marked on , March 22 and a number of programs are planned to raise awareness of the importance of water in environment, agriculture, health and trade.
According to the UN, about 80 percent of people living in rural areas get water from insecure sources and this year’s theme ‘Leave No One Behind’ focuses on ensuring that everyone, everywhere has access to safe water.
Issuing a message to mark the World Water Day Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said Sri Lanka as land that treated water resources with great respect, has paid special attention to the water supply, management and security from ancient times.
“Our country has a long history of experimenting with new concepts of water management, improving the water supply industry and providing benefits to the people.”
“The focus is on ensuring sustainable management of providing water and sanitary facilities to every person, which is among the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a member state, it is our duty to help achieve those sustainability goals.”
“At a time when the world is faced with an acute drinking and usable clean water crisis, it is of vital importance to ensure the security of our water resources and their sustainable management providing a new value to our past water management heritage.”
“The active contribution of all the citizens is needed to protect our natural water resources. Let’s make the World Water Day a great opportunity to educate the society and implement a broader program.”
