Abstract:
This paper explains the outcomes of the Udawalawa Multi-Purposes Development
Programme (UMPDP) which has implemented in 1963. The UPMPDP has
implemented under river valley development approach with o6 major objectives. This
study clearly point out the progress of these objectives and the new trends in the
programme area.The Udawalawa is the second multi-purposes development project in
Sri Lanka. The programme has covered the rehabilitation and upgrading of 62,803
ha. and 21873 ha. has newly been irrigated. Total benefitted families of the
programme is 63,522.
The results of the study reveals that the industries which were implemented under the
project were collapsed except Sevanagala Sugar factory and Thimbolketiya Timber
mill. Hydropower generation is very successful because 2450 MW has produced by
two hydro power plant in 2014. The programme has directly and indirectly generated
new job opportunities in the area. By 2014, 258,388 hectares were distributed among
poor farmers for agriculture. Even though, the project has planned to mitigate the
frequent floods in the area, the settlers still suffer the problem. As a new trend tourism
is becoming one of the major income source because of Udawalawa elephant
orphanage and Udawalawa Wild Life Park.
The study is based on primary and secondary data and information. Both qualitative
and quantitative data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires, focused
group discussions, field observations and key informant discussions. For collecting
the primary data, Moraketiya Grama Niladari Division has selected and 50 families
were interviewed. Both qualitative and quantitative data analyse techniques were
applied.
