Present Status of Pipe Borne Water Consumption - Case Study in Matara DS Division

Abstract

This study attempts to investigate the present status of pipe borne water usage in Matara DS Division with special reference to excess water usage, knowledge and attitudes of people regarding careful usage of water. About 29% o f the total population in Sri Lanka is benefited with pipe borne water. It has been found that basic water requirement is 50 liters/person/day. In Sri Lanka water supply and drainage board supply water at a rate of 150 1/p/d. Therefore, to search out the excess water usage, a survey was conducted by using a pre-tested questionnaire. According to the study it has been revealed that, 57% of the people are using pipe borne water more than the water board limits (21 units). Sixty five percent of the people have a favorable attitude regarding«areful usage of water. Majority (65%) of the people don’t have a clear idea on the method of calculating the water bill and 60% of the people complained about their water bills. Therefore, the study finally concludes that, measures should be adopted to minimize excess water usage and awareness programmes should be carried out with special emphasis on careful usage of water.