In the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka, a silent crisis is brewing beneath the surface. Nearly 93% of the country’s drinking water comes from improved sources like tubewells, a statistic that might suggest a robust water infrastructure. However, a recent study published in the journal Scientific Reports (translated from Latin as ‘Reports of Science’) reveals a stark reality: deteriorating water quality is a significant obstacle to achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 6, which aims for clean water and sanitation for all.
Led by Mohammad Shamsudduha from the Department of Risk and Disaster Reduction at University College London, the research paints a concerning picture. By analyzing groundwater and surface water quality data from national agencies, the team created a multi-parameter groundwater-quality hazard map of Sri Lanka. The results are alarming: between 3.6 to 3.8 million people are exposed to poor-quality groundwater, primarily used for drinking.
“The scale of the problem is immense,” Shamsudduha states, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The study highlights that surface water quality in some river basins, such as the Kelani River, is compromised due to industrial and agricultural contamination. This contamination not only affects local communities but also has far-reaching implications for the energy sector, which relies heavily on water for cooling and other processes.
For the energy industry, water quality is not just a health issue but a commercial one. Poor water quality can lead to increased operational costs due to the need for advanced treatment systems. Moreover, it can affect the reliability of water supply, potentially leading to disruptions in energy production. As Shamsudduha notes, “A lack of strategic national-scale monitoring systems for routine water-quality measurements poses a critical barrier to achieving sustainable drinking water supply.”
The findings underscore the need for a comprehensive, national-scale monitoring system. Such a system would enable real-time data collection and analysis, allowing for proactive measures to address water quality issues. This could involve advanced sensors and IoT devices deployed across water sources, providing continuous data to inform decision-making.
The research also opens avenues for technological innovation. For instance, AI and machine learning could be employed to predict water quality trends based on historical data, enabling preemptive actions. Additionally, blockchain technology could be used to ensure transparency and accountability in water quality management, from source to tap.
The energy sector, in particular, stands to benefit from these advancements. By integrating water quality data into their operations, energy companies can optimize water usage, reduce treatment costs, and enhance the resilience of their supply chains. Furthermore, collaboration between the energy sector and water management authorities could lead to shared infrastructure and resources, fostering a more sustainable and efficient water-energy nexus.
As Sri Lanka grapples with its water quality challenges, the study serves as a wake-up call for other nations facing similar issues. The path forward involves not just technological solutions but also policy reforms and public awareness. By addressing these challenges head-on, Sri Lanka can pave the way for a future where clean water is not a luxury but a fundamental right for all.