Restoring Access to Safe Water Post Cyclone Ditwah: A-PAD SL Partners with Aquabox and Airlink to Support Flood-Affected Communities in Puttalam
With the generous support of Aquabox and Airlink, A-PAD SL implemented a water filter distribution initiative to address the urgent lack of safe drinking water among flood-affected communities in the Puttalam District. The intervention responded to a critical gap in access to purified water, where damage to water supply systems and electricity disruptions rendered many purification facilities non-functional, forcing communities to rely on rationed drinking water provided by local authorities amid ongoing hardship.
The initiative was implemented by A-PAD SL in partnership with the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) and in close coordination with the Puttalam District Secretariat and the Karuwalgaswewa Divisional Secretariat, ensuring that assistance reached communities most affected by prolonged flooding and infrastructure damage.
Aquabox’s contribution of family and community water filters provided a durable, long-term solution that enables households and public spaces to safely treat drinking water at source. Airlink’s logistical support was instrumental in transporting the filters into Sri Lanka, while DMC facilitated clearance processes to enable timely distribution and implementation.
Community Reach and Distribution Coverage
Family water filters were distributed to households in Munamalgaswewa, Tambapanniya, Pawattamaduwa, and Pahala Puliyankulama, enabling families to safely treat drinking water at source for daily household use. In addition, community water filters were also handed to public spaces like community centers and schools, with each unit capable of supporting the drinking water needs of approximately 400–500 people, significantly expanding access to safe water beyond individual households and ensuring broader community coverage.
To ensure sustained impact, Team A-PAD conducted hands-on training sessions for beneficiary families and community representatives on the proper use and routine maintenance of both family and community water filters.
Beneficiary and Local Authority Feedback
Beneficiary families emphasized the critical importance of the filters in meeting daily drinking water needs, particularly in contexts where access to purified water remains uncertain. Communities noted that the filters provide a reliable solution not only during the current recovery phase but also in future emergencies, reducing vulnerability when similar situations arise.
Local authorities highlighted ongoing challenges related to damaged filtration systems, electricity disruptions, and reliance on rationed drinking water supplies. They noted that the introduction of manually operated water filters – requiring no electricity and supported by clear user manuals – offers a practical and sustainable solution that complements government-led water supply efforts and reduces pressure on emergency water distribution mechanisms.
A-PAD Sri Lanka extends its sincere appreciation to Aquabox and Airlink, as well as to the Disaster Management Centre and local government authorities, for their partnership and commitment to delivering sustainable, life-saving solutions to communities in need.
