The Project would introduce an innovative system of farmer managed water allocation, the Bulk Water Allocation system, along the lines presently practiced in Mahaweli’s System H. Before the main season, FOs or farmer groups would be allocated an annual water allocation, depending on the command area of the FO or group. Water savings during maha would allow a larger area to be irrigated during yala. Cropping patterns would be decided by group, taking into account the market demand indicated by the private sector and the corporate buyers. The Project would provide PID staff and farmer training and organise exchange of experiences with staff and farmers in System H.

The Project will strengthen 21 existing FOs and establish new FOs and Women and Youth Groups to undertake management of irrigation infrastructure, the environment and water resources. Social Mobilisers / Social Inclusion Workers appointed under the Project (3 in the 2nd project year, additional 8 in the 3rd year totalling 11, further 10 in the 4th year totalling 21, and maintaining a total of 18 in the 5th year) will undertake FOs strengthening and social mobilization process. During the initial years social mobilization / inclusion could also draw in the assistance of partner agencies and other public institutions in the province such as district level Department of Cooperative Services, Agrarian Services, Agriculture, Education, Health and Nutrition all of which are directly or indirectly involved with the Project.

The Project will support about 2000 families experiencing water shortages with rain water harvesting tanks for drinking water and other small earth structures to capture rainwater runoff and ground water recharging.