Cabinet approves Sri Lanka-Japan Big Data Project to protect Kelani river

The Sri Lankan Cabinet has approved a major five-year (2026–2031) Rs. 646 million project to protect the Kelani River through advanced data-driven environmental monitoring. The project brings together the Central Environmental Authority, University of Moratuwa, and Tohoku University, with funding support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency under the SATREPS program.

The initiative aims to introduce a high-resolution, real-time water quality monitoring system for the river, which is crucial for drinking water, hydropower, and industrial use. Using technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and numerical modeling, the system will help authorities accurately identify and track sources of pollution beyond the current 17 monitoring locations.

A key component of the project is the establishment of a Water Environmental Data Organizing Justify at the University of Moratuwa. This Justify will function as the technical hub, integrating data into the Environmental Protection License (EPL) system to support evidence-based legal enforcement. In addition, Japanese experts will provide specialized training to ensure long-term sustainability and capacity building among local institutions.

To manage the project, the Central Environmental Authority will create a dedicated unit supported by a Joint Coordinating Committee and international experts. The initiative is expected to strengthen environmental governance, address challenges such as climate change and urbanization, and serve as a model for monitoring other river basins across Sri Lanka.

Source:

https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/Cabinet-approves-Sri-Lanka-Japan-Big-Data-Project-to-protect-Kelani-river/108-335656