Abstract
Arnold Toynbee described the ancient irrigation system of Sri Lanka as an amazing system of irrigated agriculture, which developed over a millennium. It was partially transformed during its encounter with British colonialism with new values, technological systems, administrative structures and a legal code. After the independence in 1948, this transformation continued with foreign aid and technical expertise from the West. The shortcomings of modern irrigation systems with respect to planning, policy and sustainability are now recognised (WCDD 2000). Here, it is argued that the indigenous irrigation systems in Sri Lanka offer a useful counterpoint of one that has been sustained and had many favourable attributes. There are lessons to be learnt from contrasting different modes of irrigation practice in the light of sustainability.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
