1st January 2026
The historic Elahera Anicut was officially reopened on 30 December 2025 following the completion of major restoration work carried out jointly by the Sri Lanka Army, the Mahaweli Authority and the Department of Irrigation. The reconstruction was undertaken after the ancient structure sustained extensive damage due to recent flood situation in the country.
Troops of the Sri Lanka Army Engineers together with troops from the 16 Sri Lanka National Guard, carried out the renovation work. A team of Army medical officers was also assigned to ensure the health and wellbeing of both troops and civilians involved in the project.
The reopening ceremony was held with the participation of Hon. T.B. Sarath, Deputy Minister of Housing, Construction and Networks, Mr. E.M.D.S. Ekanayake, District Secretary of Polonnaruwa and Major General J.S.B.W. Pallekumbura RWP RSP ndu psc, Commander of Security Forces (East).
