An Anthropological Study on Road Development-based Settlement Projects and their Impacts on the Community (With Special Reference to Ihala Karagahamuna-North GN Division, Kadawatha)

In Sri Lanka, road construction is a key developmental focus, but it leads to significant displacement and relocation issues. Successful transportation projects require careful analysis of their socio-cultural and economic impacts on settlements. However, it can be seen that the government has focused less on this aspect. In this study, the research problem was: What kind of impact do settlement projects have on the community? Research on the impact of settlement projects has often focused on re- settlers and neglected the original settlers (resident people). Therefore, the main objective was to explore the economic, social and cultural impacts of settlement projects on both original settlers and relocated people. To achieve the objectives, 40 families—20 from each group, were selected using the simple random sampling method, based on the resettlement project in Ihala Karagahamuna North, Kadawatha. Data from interviews and questionnaires were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. The results showed residents' negative views on a settlement project due to socio-economic issues like property loss and insecurity. Unemployment negatively impacted the economy, but peaceful surroundings had positive social effects on resettled individuals. Finally, this research found that the overall settlement project had both positive and negative impacts. In conclusion, it can be elaborated that the overall settlement project is successful to some extent, and it could be improved by adhering to the following recommendations: listening to the concerns of impacted people, providing additional alternatives, providing sufficient facilities, and conducting post-settlement monitoring procedures.