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Safe Drinking Water Distribution for Katharagama Pilgrims
Sivamani Manokaran
TRANSFORM LIVES OF COMMUNITIES
Immediate response during Provide food, water
Batticaloa Singing Fish Leo
Zone 3
Region 2
2026-07-10
Ukanthai to Katharagama
Project Title
Safe Drinking Water Distribution for Katharagama Pilgrims
Project Duration
10 July 2026 – 15 July 2026 (6 Days)
Project Locations
The drinking water distribution was carried out at the following key locations along the Katharagama pilgrimage route:
Uganthai
Vannathivettai
Kumukan
Naavaladi
Viyaalai
Valliamman Paalam
Service Category
Hunger Relief / Humanitarian Service
Project Objective
The objective of this project was to provide safe and clean drinking water to pilgrims undertaking the annual Katharagama pilgrimage. Due to the long distances traveled and the high temperatures experienced during the pilgrimage, access to safe drinking water is essential to prevent dehydration and heat-related illnesses. This initiative aimed to support the health, safety, and well-being of pilgrims throughout their spiritual journey.
Project Description
From 10 July 2026 to 15 July 2026, our Lions Club conducted a six-day drinking water distribution project at six major locations along the Katharagama pilgrimage route: Uganthai, Vannathivettai, Kumukan, Naavaladi, Viyaalai, and Valliamman Paalam.
During the project, a total of 20,000 liters of safe drinking water was distributed to pilgrims. Volunteers coordinated the transportation, storage, and distribution of water to ensure that it was readily available throughout the day at each distribution point.
Approximately 10,000 pilgrims benefited each day, receiving clean drinking water while continuing their pilgrimage. The project required careful planning and coordination to maintain a continuous water supply across all six locations over the six-day period.
Project Cost
The total expenditure for the project was LKR 30,000, which included:
Purchase and supply of drinking water
Transportation and distribution costs
Logistics and operational expenses
Beneficiaries
Approximately 10,000 pilgrims per day
Estimated total beneficiaries over six days: 60,000 pilgrim services (many pilgrims may have received water on multiple days during their journey).
Volunteer Activities
Lions members and volunteers actively participated in:
Transporting drinking water to distribution points
Setting up water distribution stations
Serving pilgrims throughout the day
Monitoring water availability and replenishing supplies
Coordinating logistics between the six locations
Maintaining cleanliness and environmental responsibility during the project
Impact of the Project
The project made a significant contribution to the health and safety of pilgrims by ensuring continuous access to safe drinking water during one of the most physically demanding religious pilgrimages in Sri Lanka. The availability of drinking water helped reduce the risk of dehydration and heat exhaustion, particularly for elderly pilgrims, children, and those walking long distances.
The initiative was warmly appreciated by the pilgrims and local communities and reflected the Lions Club's commitment to humanitarian service and community well-being.