Design of Reservoirs for Multiple Use of Water Aparekka Ara Reservoir in the Nilwala Catchment

In general, medium scale reservoirs, which have been constructed in Sri Lanka, aimed to fulfill only irrigation requirement. Although, many modern reservoirs that operate today serve two or more purposes. The most common purposes of these reservoirs are to generate hydroelectric power, water supply, provide flood control, enable irrigation, inland fishery and provide recreational opportunities. When a reservoir functions in such varied ways, it is called a multipurpose reservoir. The proposed Aparekka Ara Reservoir has planned as a multipurpose reservoir to fulfill the needs of the surrounding area. It can be utilized to supply water for irrigation and drinking purpose. Also, it has been planned to serve as detention reservoir for flood controlling. Hydroelectric power production can be obtained as a by product. Therefore, Aparekka Ara Reservoir can be considered as eco efficient water infrastructure.