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Abstract
Despite some obvious differences between the two countries, Australian experience and approaches are proving useful in technical assistance to current reforms in the Sri Lankan water sector. A system of bulk water allocation through transferable entitlements is proposed in a policy package being considered by government. Demand management measures, including sharing of water management costs, are also proposed. Integrated planning of basin water resources is expected to play an important part in the new water management strategy. Institutional recommendations have also been prepared. An apex National Water Resources Authority along with an inter-ministerial Water Resources Council and an appeal resolution Water Resources Tribunal are proposed to carry out planning, regulatory, co-ordination, and related functions. River basin committees are recommended for basin level coordination in many areas, while the Mahaweli Authority, a major irrigation-oriented development agency, is being restructured along the lines of a river basin authority with Australian and other national guidance. A long-term, bilateral relationship has also been proposed as a means of capacity building and technical support for emerging issues.
