preface - arb.lk volume i.pdf · preface this development plan has been prepared for the...

PREFACE

This development plan has been prepared for the implementation of the development of

Ratnapura Municipal Council area within the next three decades. The aim of this plan is to

make Ratnapura, an attractive sustainable capital city of the Sabaragamuwa Province. It has

also been proposed to develop, Ratnapura city on dual centered concept with new

administrative centre at new town and the commercial centre at old town. Which has been

linked by a well planned network of roads. Ratnapura town is a disaster prone area and the

commercial town is subjected to flooding twice in an year.

Having considered all these facts necessary steps have been introduced to minimize the

disaster and to develop the town physically, economically, socially and environmentally

viable area.

iii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Planning Team of Urban Development Authority, Ratnapura District Office in

Sabaragamuwa Province is grateful to the following institutions along with the UN-

Habitat for their coordination, for providing necessary technical equipment and for their

support in successfully conducting the stakeholder meetings regarding the development

plan. At this moment we are extremely thankful to Plnr. Indu Weerasoori Project

Manager of DRR and her team and Ms. Kaushalya Jayalath DRR Projects Office for

their help at various stages of this Ratnapura Development Plan for the support given by

them in the preparation of this plan.

Ratnapura Municipal Council

Ratnapura District Secretariat

Ratnapura Divisional Secretariat

National Physical Planning Department

Road Development Authority

Ceylon Electricity Board

National Water Supply and Drainage Board

Archeology Department

Ministry of Health

Provincial Council (Sabaragamuwa Province) and Ministries

Central Environmental Authority

Census and Statistics Department

Postal Department

The Team would like to express the gratitude to the Chairman, Director General and

Development Planning Division of the Urban Development Authority for the immense

encouragement and support given to prepare and finalized of this plan.

iv

The Team which participated for the Town Development Plan of

Ratnapura Municipal Council Area

1. Ms. I.S. Weerasoori, Former Dy. Director General (Planning)

2. Mr. W. Gunaratne, Former Director (Sabaragamuwa Province)

3. Mr. P.K.D. Pathirana, Former Director (Sabaragamuwa Province)

4. Ms. J.P.S. Somasekara, Dy. Director (Planning), Head Office

5. Ms. S.D.D.N. Kulatunga, Dy. Director (Planning), Head Office

6. Mr. D.A.D. Athukorala, Asst. Director (Planning)

7. Ms. K.A.S. Gunasekara, Planning Officer

8. Ms. H.K.D. Manori Krisenta, Planning Officer

9. Ms. H.K. Neelika, Planning Officer

10. Mr. K.M.I. Saman Rupasinghe, Planning Officer

11. Ms. S.P.S. Kumari, Planning Officer

12. Ms. A.P. Priyangi Bandarawatte, Planning Assistant

13. Ms. Sakitha Nawaratne, Planning Assistant

14. Ms. W.M. Wathsooriya, Draughtsman

15. Ms. M. Nadeeka Gunawardena, Draughtsman

16. Ms. Kaushalya, UN-Habitat

17. Ms. T.B. Sandya, GIS Officer

18. Ms. K.M.J. Hemalatha, Typist

19. Ms. Chandima Gunaratne, Typist

20. Ms. Dileepa Weeraratne, Typist

21. Ms. Roshani Thilangika, Typist

22. Ms. U.G.H. Rupasinghe, Computer Operator, Head Office

23. Mr. H.P. Wijesiri, Office Aide

24. Mr. Samantha Munasinghe, Office Aide

25. Mr. Anton Jenis Silva, Driver

v

Index

Part I

Page No.

Chapter 01

Situational Report

1.1 Introduction 01

1.2 Historical Background 01

1.3 Physical and Environmental Setting 03

1.4 Cultural and Religious Background 03

Chapter 02

National and Regional Linkages

2.1 National/Regional and Provincial Policies 04

2.2 Urban Importance and Regional Relationship 06

Chapter 03

Population

3.1 Total Population and Population Growth 07

3.2 Density 07

3.3 Commuting Population 10

3.4 Population Composition According to the Age Groups 10

3.5 Population Composition 11

3.5.1 Male/Female 11

3.5.2 Population Composition According to the Race 11

3.5.3 Population Composition According to the Religion 12

3.6 Estimated Population 12

3.7 Conclusions 13

Chapter 04

Land Use Pattern

4.1 The Existing Land Use Pattern 14

4.2 Special Features of Land Utilization 16

4.3 Land Values 16

4.4 Land Ownership 18

4.5 Issues and Problems 19

4.6 Conclusions 20

Chapter 05

Lands Consumption

5.1 Classification of the Existing Houses – 2013 21

5.2 Housing Density 21

5.3 Housing Deficit 22


5.5 Conclusions 24

vi

Page No.

Chapter 06

Economic Foundation

6.1 The Present Economic Foundation 25

6.2 Employment Pattern in the Town 27


6.4 Conclusions 28

Chapter 07

Infrastructure Facilities

7.1 Physical Infrastructure Facilities 29

7.1.1 Roads and Railways 29

7.1.2 Transportation Services 31

7.1.3 Telecommunication Services 32

7.1.4 Electricity Supply 32

7.1.5 Drinking Water Supply 34

7.1.6 Rain Water Drainage System 34

7.1.7 Disposal of Solid Waste 35

7.1.8 Sewage System 35

7.2 Social Infrastructure Facilities 36

7.2.1 Health Facilities 36

7.2.2 Education 37

7.2.3 Open and Outdoor Spaces 38


7.4 Conclusions 41

Chapter 08

Ecological Assets

8.1 Sensitive Areas 42

8.2 Natural Disasters 42

8.2.1 Identified Disasters 43

8.2.2 Disaster Vulnerability Assessment 44

8.3 Main Problems Related to Disasters in the Town 48

Chapter 09

Situational Analysis

9.1 Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats in Ratnapura 49

Urban Area

vii

List of Tables

Page No.

01. The total population in Ratnapura town and population growth 1971–2011 07

02. Population density according to Gramaseva Divisions 2011 08

03. The population in the town according to the age groups 10

04. Ratnapura Municipal Council domain : Population Composition – Male/Female 11

05. The population composition according to the race – 2011 11

06. The population composition according to the religion – 2011 12

07. Estimated population 2011 – 2030 12

08. The existing land consumption pattern – 2013 14

09. The land value prevalence 18

10. Land ownership (equivalent to family category) 19

11. Classification of existing houses – 2013 21

12. Houses density according to divisions – 2011 21

13. Lack of houses – from 2011 - 2030 22

14. Gems exporting revenue from 1995 – 2011 25

15. Prevalence of commercial activities in Ratnapura town - 2011 26

16. Employment pattern – 2013 27

17. Classification of roads – 2013 29

18. Traffic flow within the town – 2013 31

19. General busses (daily) and passenger transportation 31

20. Prevalence of telephone connections (Telecom) and waiting list – 2013 32

(Ratnapura and adjacent areas)

21. Electricity consumption – 2012 32

22. Water consumption – 2012 34

23. Drainage system – 2012 35

24. Sewage methods – 2011 35

25. Ratnapura Provincial General Hospital – Facilities and staff composition – 2012 36

26. Condition of schools and facilities – 2011 37

27. Leisure and entertaining facilities – 2013 38

28. Public open air lands 39

viii

List of Maps

Page No.

Map No. 1 - Location – Ratnapura Urban area 02

Map No. 2 - Sabaragamuwa Province – Structural Plan 05

Map No. 3 - Population Density according to Urban Divisions – 2013 09

Ratnapura Urban Area

Map No. 4 - Land Consumption Pattern - 2013 15


Map No. 5 - Land Value – 2013 17


Map No. 6 - Houses Density According to Urban Divisions – 2013 23


Map No. 7 - Road Network – 2013 30


Map No. 8 - Electricity Supply System 33


Map No. 09 - Flood Risk Areas 46


Map No. 10 - Landslip Risk Areas 46


Map No. 11 - Multi Strategy Areas 47


ix

Part I

Chapter 01

Situational Report

1.1 Introduction

Ratnapura town, the capital and key administrative center of Sabaragamuwa

Province is situated at Colombo – Badulla road by 101 km. away from Colombo.

The population within Ratnapura Municipal Council limit is approximately Five

Thousand and its extent is 22.2 Km2. (Map No. 01)

Ratnapura town is an important Gems Trading Center since ancient times in

National and International level as this area is rich of Gem Resources.

Ratnapura town also bears an importance as a town where having a considerable

commuting population with tourists‟ attraction and having junctions of Colombo –

Badulla main road, tourists‟ attractive places such as Katugasella, Rajan Ella and

religious places such as Adam‟s Peak and Saman Devalaya. Also, it is a special

factor to Ratnapura town that disasters such as landslides, floods occur time to time

from the past decades.

1.2 Historical Background

It is evident from the historical records of sailors such as Plini, Hiyunsan and Iban

Batuta that Ratnapura town has won a world level attraction from ancient time. The

said historical records contain the information about the quality of Gems in

Ratnapura area. Further, as mentioned in these documents the Kalu Ganga had used

as a naval trade route from Western shoe to Sabaragamuwa Province from ancient

times.

Taking into consideration of the town‟s historical development, it is witnessed that

the town had developed as a main trade and administrative center in regional level

from ancient time. At the beginning, Ratnapura town was called as „Saparapura‟

and thereafter it was developed gradually as the main trade center according to the

importance of its location. The capital of Sabaragamuwa Province within the last

Sinhala King‟s era was Ratnapura. It is believed that due to availability of plenty of

Gems, later it was called as „Ruwan Puraya‟, „Ratnapuraya‟.

A Local Board was established in 1887 for the town‟s administration and

maintenance and brought under a Local Government General Council established in

terms of the Local Government Council Act of 1922. Ratnapura town achieved a

development as above was upgraded to a position of Municipal Council in 1968.

01

Since then, the area belong to Ratnapura Municipal Council limit was declared as

the Urban Development area by Gazette No. 18/16 of 01.06.1979 based on the

physical development achieved gradually.

1.3 Physical and Environmental Setting

Ratnapura town is situated above 18 meters from the Mean Sea Level between

Latitude 600-41‟ and 60

0-42‟ from North and Longitude 80

0-23‟ – 80

0-24‟from East.

According to physical features, Ratnapura town consists with mountain areas with

steep slopes, river valleys, low lands and plains and the said features existing within

a range of 18-305 meters from the Mean Sea Level.

Kalu Ganga is one of the main four rivers in Sri Lanka and Ratnapura town is

located in its valley. The Way Ganga joins to it within town is an important

physical feature in Urban Development.

About 13% from the total extent of town are low lands which is important as flood

retention areas (paddy fields and wetlands). Geographically, Pre-Cambrian

Highlands Series and rocks belong to Charnockite category and gem deposits

associated to lowland of the town can be seen.

Location of Ratnapura town in a trough between South West mountain slopes in the

central uplands has become as a special factor for its ecological conditions.

The normal annual temperature is 29.440 C and records witness that the highest

temperature within March and the lowest temperature within January of the year.

The normal rainfall within town varies from 3000 mm to 4000 mm. and records

witness that the highest rainfall from May to June in South East monsoon period and

from September to October in inter monsoon period.

1.4 Cultural and Religious Background

A special importance achieves (in Adam‟s Peak pilgrim time) by Ratnapura town as

it is located associating to Adam‟s Peak pilgrimage route. It is an important town

because it facilitates for Thousands of pilgrims who cross the town in Adam‟s Peak

pilgrimage time.

Also, the historical Maha Saman Devalaya situated within Ratnapura urban area

which was constructed by the King Second Parakramabahu (1153 – 1186 B.C) in

belief is a very important cultural factor. The annual Esala Perahera of Maha Saman

Devalaya tours within a whole week in August in the year and it is a main Perahera

from that Four Perahera in Sri Lanka. Therefore, it is very important to use the

potential of the development of cultural and religious background in the Ratnapura

town.

03

Chapter 02

National and Regional Linkages

2.1 According to „The National Physical Planning Policy and Plan of Sri Lanka (2011-

2030)‟ prepared by the Department of National Physical Planning, Ratnapura town

belongs to the proposed Protected Area Network. As Ratnapura town is situated

within the central fragile area, these matters become as key factors that must be

taken into consideration when determining the intensity of the town‟s development.

The objectives of proposed protected area network in the National Physical Planning

Policy and Plan have indicated as follows.

“The central fragile area has included to the conservation zone with the

objective of conserving water sources of the country. Only several selected

areas in this area will be retained but their development, prevalence will be

controlled and limited. Conservation strategies will be implemented to

avoid conflict situation in land consumption process.”

Accordingly, in the settlement plan of central population and gardens plantations,

Ratnapura town has named as a town that can‟t be further developed by the National

Physical Plan. According that as the capital of Ratnapura district, the targeted

population in Ratnapura town has indicated as 75,000 by 2030.

Further, according to the National Physical plan, a railway line has suggested across

Ratnapura town connecting Colombo Municipal Council area and Hambantota

Municipal Council area.

According to the „Sabaragamu Provincial Local Plan‟ prepared by the Department of

National Physical Planning‟ it is suggested to develop the Ratnaupura Town as a

first order town. Following are the development objectives contained in the said

plan. (Map No. 02)

1. Protecting environment by limiting the development in central fragile area,

proposed protective area and ecologically important areas i.e. local, regional

and regional areas.

2. Ensuring the people living in Sabaragamuwa Province are safe from natural

disasters.

3. Networking the centralized main towns, towns and villages by way of giving

various job opportunities, service facilities and higher living standard

prevalent in a suitable range.

4. Establishing social and physical infrastructure facilities and access roads

including efficient and common transportation service for an economical and

good living style of the people in villages, towns and main towns within

Sabaragamuwa Province.

04

5. Protecting water rich areas, water sources and reservoirs to enhance the

quality of water, stabilizing the water supply to generate domestic, industrial

and factories energy and directing the excess water to scarcity zones.

6. Establishing of a particular, various and stable environment with various job

opportunities including a tourism industry for villagers in Sabaragamuwa.

2.2 Urban Importance and Zonal Relationships

Ratnapura is important as the capital of Sabaragamuwa Province, the district capital

of Ratnapura District and acts as the center of Provincial Institutions‟ offices, district

offices and institutions. Accordingly, it provides important services as the first order

town of Sabaragamuwa Province and the main administrative center, regionally and

locally.

Also Ratnapura town acts as the key supply center of many social and economic

services for villagers and people in following towns prevalent in a large range.

Ratnapura town is located in a regionally important landmark to which help to

maintain the direct connections with Uva, Southern and Central Provinces in the

Island. Also, there is a trend of further development of said importance with the

existing Hambantota Urban Development Plan.

Especially as a key turning point of Colombo – Monaragala road, the Ratnapura

town directly joins to Southern Province along Ratnapura – Kalawana road.

06

Chapter 03

Population

3.1 Total Population and Population Growth

According to 2011 Census and Population statistics, the total population of

Ratnapura town is 49,083. It is 4.5% of population in the district.

The population growth pattern within the town indicates by the following table.

Table No. 01

The Total Population of Ratnapura Town and Population Growth 1971 – 2011

Year Total Population Average Annual Growth

Rate

1971 30,614

1981 37,554 2.60%

2001 46,309 1.07%

2011 49,083 1.0%

Source : Department of Census and Population

Although a continuous population growth indicates according to the population

growth pattern, a decrease in population growth can be seen within the urban area.

Comparing to year 2001, the population has been increased by 2774 within the

period of 2001 – 2011. Accordingly, the urban population increases by 277 per year.

The population growth rate in Banalgoda town is 1.5. As the population growth in

Ratnapura town has been decreased by 1.0, a decrease of the population growth in

Ratnapura town indicates in comparing to Balangoda town.

Migration people from the town is a strong factor for above matter due to limitation

of suitable lands for development according to the existing physical location, and

easy availability of most suitable lands around the neighborhood towns.

3.2 Population Density

The gross population density in Ratnapura town is 22 persons per 1 hectare and net

population density is 52 persons per 1 hectare. Further, when comparing near

Provincial areas, there is a higher population density in Ratnapura urban area

relatively.

07

Table No. 02 indicates the population density according to Gramaseva Divisions

within the town.

Table No. 02

Population according to Gramaseva Divisions

Gramaseva

Division

Gramaseva

Division

Number

Population

Area

(Hectares)

Gross

Population

Density per 1

Hectare

Angammana 181C 2154 103.87 21

Batugedara 180 1835 90.39 20

Devalegoda 151A 1950 74.42 26

Godigamuwa 152 2854 122.77 23

Koladagala 181A 222 132.24 2

Kospenavinne 153A 5076 450.28 11

Mahawala 152C 1346 38.20 35

Mihindigama 152D 6006 54.45 110

Mudduwa 182A 164 5.49 27

Mudduwa East 182A 3950 102.66 38

Muwagama 182 2208 105.49 21

New Town 153A 3521 311.59 11

Ratnapura

Town

152 1641 29.01 57

Ratnapura

Town - North

152E 4596 86.20 53

Ratnapura

Town – West

152F 1283 51.12 25

Samangipura 182C 3002 75.64 40

Thiriwanakeriya 180B 2442 174.22 14

Weralupa 153A 4833 210.00 23

Total 49083 2218 557


According to Table No. 02 above, a population density of 110 persons per 1 hectare

indicates within Mihindugama Gramaseva Division. Additionally, a higher

population density indicates in the central area of Ratnapura town. The infrastructure

facilities provided in the central town and the areas near the town have become as a

reason for that.

Also, a low population density indicates in areas away from the town due to plenty

of natural disasters, less availability of infrastructure facilities and based on the

geographical location. (Map No. 03).

08

3.3 Commuting Population

The daily commuting population in Ratnapura town is between 150,000 – 200,000.

Following are the reasons to increase of commuting population to obtain services in

the town.

For employment purposes.

To obtain health facilities.

Economic purposes such as Gems dealing.

For education purposes.

To obtain transportation to travel other areas.

To obtain services for agriculture purposes.

To obtain banking and financial facilities.

In addition to above, centralizing of administrative functions and education activities

within the town and recently enhancing of health facilities have been affected to

above situation.

3.4 Population Composition According to Age Groups

The population composition within Ratnapura Municipal Council limit according to

age groups indicates by Table No. 03.

Table No. 03

Population in the Town according to the Age Groups

Age Group (Years) Population Percentage %

<5 4335 8.80

6 – 18 11817 24.08

18 – 35 12201 24.87

36 – 60 15862 32.32

> 60 4868 9.93

Total Population 49083 100.00


According to the above table, the depended population is 42.81%. The percentage

of total workable population is 57.19% and 42% out of the said workable population

belongs to the age group of 18 – 35.

10

3.5 Population Composition

3.5.1 Female / Male

According to female/male population composition, an important indicative matter is

that the male population had exceeded the female population in 1971 and 1981. But

comparing to early years, a sign of gradual decrease can be seen. (Table No. 04)

Table No. 04

Ratnapura Municipal Council Limit : Population Composition – Female / Male

Census Year Total Population Female Male Sex Ratio

1971 30,614 14,397 16,217 112

1981 37,554 17,725 19,629 110

2001 46,309 23,196 23,118 99

2011 49,083 25,110 23975 95

Source : Department of Census and Population - 2011

3.5.2 Population Composition According to the Race

The population composition according to the race indicates by Table No. 05.

Table No. 05

Population composition according to the Race – 2011

Ethnicity Census – 2011

Census Percentage

Sinhalese 39098 79.64

Sri Lankan Tamil 3099 6.33

Indian Tamil 708 1.43

Sri Lankan Moor 6099 12.42

Malay 70 0.14

Others 09 0.04

Total 49083 100.00

Source : Department of Census and Population - 2011

According to the Table No. 05 above, it is clear that Ratnapura town is a town where

having multi race population mainly with Sinhalese.

11

3.5.3 Population Composition According to the Religion

Table No. 06

Population Composition According to the Religion

Ethnicity 2011

Number of

People

Percentage

Buddhists 38649 78.74

Hindus 3313 6.75

Islamic 6342 12.92

Roman Catholic 550 1.12

Christian 212 0.44

Others 17 0.40

Total 49083 100.00

Source : Department of Census and Populations - 2011

According to the religious diversity in Ratnapura town, the Buddhist population is

the highest and Islamic population is 12.9%. In Balangoda 17%. The Islamic

population in Ratnapura town is less than Balangoda town relatively.

Also according to the table above, it is clear that Ratnapura is a multi-religious town

mainly with Buddhism.

3.6 Estimated Population

Table No. 07

Estimated Population 2011 - 2030

Year Estimated

Population

2011 49083

2016 52520

2021 56197

2026 60131

2030 64340

Total 64340

Source : Urban Development Authority – Survey Reports

Consideration was given about the effect of following factors to estimate the

population based on the population 49,083 of 2011 and the annual growth speed

1.5%, according to the statistics of the Department of Census and Statistics.

12

1. Ratnapura town is one of the main commercial towns.

2. Located closely to Kuruvita Industrial area.

3. Establishment of Government and Semi-Government zone in Ratnapura new

town.

4. Development of popular schools, health facilities and social infrastructure

facilities within the town.

5. Availability of urban facilities as the town is located in landmark of a main

roads network.

3.7 Conclusion

Although population growth occurs gradually a large number of people

migrate for suburbs located closely to the main town.

Further development as the key administrative town.

As it is a town with centralized road network, a increase of circulating

population can be seen.

Due to development of health / education field, an increase of future

population can be expected.

13

Chapter 04

Land Use Pattern

4.1 Land Use Pattern

According to Table No. 08, the whole area i.e. 2218 hectares has been utilized for

variety of uses. Accordingly, the extent of developed lands is 72.9% and 26.7% has

been utilized for paddy fields, garden plantation and mixed crops. The existing

vacant area is 0.4%. In determining the lands that are able to use for urban

activities, the lands and scrubs consist with crop plantations can be taken into

consideration. However, the existing environmental sensitivity of the town must be

taken into consideration with regard to the development of wetlands and paddy

lands. (Map No. 04)

Table No. 08

The Existing Land Use Pattern – 2013

Utilization Land Extent

(Hectares)

Percentage from

the whole Land

Residential 951.2 42.90

Commercial 46.57 2.10

Industries 0.22 0.01

Administrative Institutions 88.72 4.00

Highways 117.55 5.30

Playgrounds, parks and open lands 22.18 1.00

Religious 4.43 0.20

Urban forests / scrubs 307.85 13.88

Cemeteries 0.22 0.01

Paddy lands 252.85 11.40

Garden plantations

(Tea/Rubber/Coconut)

312.73 14.10

Mixed crops / garden plantations 26.61 1.20

Wetlands 11.99 0.50

Water ways 66.54 3.00

Blank lands 8.02 0.40

Total 2218 100.00

Source : Field surveys 2013 – Urban Development Authority

I. Residential Use

According to physical location of the town, a considerable percentage of lands from

total area cannot be developed as they are situated in non developable slope areas

and flood prone areas and therefore the residential use has taken a low figure i.e.

42.9%. The residential area has prevalent mainly in sides of main road and by-

roads. However, a considerable extent of lands for residential purpose has utilized

from steep slope areas and flood prone areas due to scarcity of suitable lands.

14

II. Forest Lands

The urban forest area consists with cultivated and natural forests lands. These forests

consist with steep slope and water rich areas which cannot be adopted for the town‟s

development. Protecting of the town‟s environment condition is a prevailing

necessity. 13.88% from the total land has been allocated for this utilization. When

comparing with such utilization in other towns, this takes a higher figure.

III. Cemeteries

A sufficient extent of lands within the town has been allocated for cemeteries (02

hectares). Access to cemeteries is difficult because many residential areas of the

town are situated in hillside. The people live in North West and South East has to

come about 10.0 km. to the crematorium located in the town. In addition to above,

several crematoriums with less facility are available in Devalegoda, Kospelavinne,

Ratnapura town.

IV. Paddy Lands, Wetlands, Watery

Paddy lands, wetlands and watery must maintain as flood retention areas because

they are the low lands of the town. Though abandon paddy lands which are in low

risk in flood can be used for urban developed.

4.2 Special Characteristics of Land Utilization

With the development of commercial usage of the sides of main road, a

tendency of establishing sub commercial zones in areas such as Moragahayata

junction and new town junction can be seen.

The residential activities in sides of main road converts to commercial usage

gradually.

Also a linear development of commercial activities upto Ratnapura town from

the Colombo – Badulla road in the new town (the main access) can be seen.

4.3 Value of Lands

The physical location of Ratnapura town and existing infrastructure facilities have

been taken as a base in determining the present value of its lands. Though natural

disasters such as floods occur in the town center, it doesn‟t make a much effect to

bring down the lands‟ value in said area. (Table No. 09 and Map No. 05) However,

the lands‟ value in the town varies from Rs. 50,000/ to 450,000/- per 1 perch.

16

Table No. 09

Prevalence of Lands Value – 2013

Value Zone Value Range – Price of 25m2 of

approx. One Perch (in Rupees)

1 below 50,000

2 50,000 – 150,000

3 150,000 – 250,000

4 250,000 – 350,000

5 350,000 – 450,000

6 above 450,000

Source : Ratnapura Municipal Council and Field Surveys

Accordingly, a lowest land value based on the steep slope situation in Kospelavinne,

Angammana divisions can be seen. Determination of land value in a higher scale

has made in town center, Pulungupitiya, Fort Bazaar, Warakathota areas due to

availability of infrastructure facilities. Also the lands in sides of main road take a

higher value.

When comparing the land value in 2004 and 2013, the land value within the new

town and it‟s around areas has been increased by a considerable amount based on

establishment of administrative zone there.

Also, the value of paddy lands relatively, takes a higher value due to the demand for

gems mining. Accordingly, the price of a paddy land varies from 6,000 to 10,000.

(Per 1 perch)

4.4 Lands Ownership

In consideration of the present land ownership, about 60% from the total lands in the

town are private owned lands. Distribution of private owned lands are, 52% free

hold lands, 5% are Jayabhoomy lands, 3.6% are licensed lands. Additionally, 37.1%

from Government lands are used without permission. Lands belongs to Temples

and Devale are 2.3%. Accordingly, the land ownership is an important factor when

taking those lands for development works in terms of their location.

18

Table No. 10

Land Ownership (Equivalent to the Number of Families) – 2011

Grama Niladhari Division

Fre

e H

old

Lan

ds

Jayab

hoom

y

Lic

ense

d

Lan

ds

Lan

d u

sed

wit

hout

Per

mis

sion

Lan

ds

bel

ong

to T

emple

s

and D

eval

e

Tota

l A

cres

Percentage 52% 5% 3.6% 37.1% 2.3%

Near Devalaya 240 0 0 40 110 390

Godigamuwa 402 0 0 172 0 574

Ratnapura Town 275 0 0 45 3 323

Weralupa 850 20 18 142 20 1050

Mahawala 40 12 02 256 2 308

Mihindugama 550 18 90 612 0 1270

Ratnapura Town – North 86 0 69 613 0 768

Ratnapura Town – West 201 0 2 46 9 258

New Town 385 135 105 218 0 843

Kospelavinne 650 123 05 254 0 1025

Batugedara 278 0 0 150 37 465

Kolandagala 39 13 2 4 0 58

Thiriwanaketiya 417 0 03 110 55 582

Angammana 468 0 0 79 15 562

Muwagama 509 45 1 31 0 586

Mudduwa 0 0 24 16 0 40

Samangipura 1 185 32 540 0 758

Mudduwa East 195 05 30 450 0 675

Source : Ratnapura Municipal Council and Filed Surveys

4.5 Issues and Problems

The town directs to a linear development due to enhancing of the commercial

lands utilization in sides of main road.

Due to increase of lands‟ price in town center and main roads, the land

reclamation rises up and therefore the hillside areas directs to a speedy

development.

The most suitable developable lands are owned by estate companies and

therefore inappropriate lands directs for development.

The Government owned lands that are not duly controlled are developed

without permission and therefore the disaster situations escalate.

As the usage of low price lands by low income settlers, the development works

are done in inappropriate hillsides and low land areas.

19

4.6 Conclusions

Increase of possibility in changing of land utilization together with the

development of infrastructure facilities.

Direction of various usages in each area based on the land value can be seen

(development of commercial activities in road sides).

Irregular land utilization according to the geographical location.

Scarcity of suitable lands for development in terms of the natural disasters and

land‟s irregularity.

20

Chapter 05

Housing 5.1 Classification of the Existing Houses – 2013

Table No. 11 Classification of the existing Houses – 2013

Nature of the House Units Percentage %

Permanent 7661 78.13 Semi-Fixed 1944 19.65 Temporary 249 2.22

Total 9864 100.00

Source : Divisional Secretariat – Ratnapura

According to Table No. 11, out of total housing of 9864, permanent houses in 2013

were 78.13% and 19.65% were semi per houses. 50% out of the temporary houses

were situated in Kospelavinne, Thiriwanaketiya, Pulingupitiya and Mudduwa areas.

The temporary houses in these area were mostly developed in river reservation and

railway reservation. The semi-permanent houses have been placed in Saman Place,

new town and Samangipura area of the town where the residents of government

lands live. The low income people reside in these areas as houses without

permission is the reason for above situation.

5.2 Density of Houses

Table No. 12

Density of houses according to the Divisions – 2011 Grama Niladhari

Division Total Extent (Hectares)

Number of Houses

Houses Density per 1 Hectare

Near Devalaya 74.42 342 4.50

Godigamuwa 122.77 538 4.30

Ratnapura Town 29.01 276 9.50

Weralupa 210.00 1032 4.90

Mahawala 38.20 290 7.59

Mihindugama 54.45 1006 18.47

Ratnapura Town – North 86.20 721 8.36

Ratnapura Town – West 51.12 256 5.00

New Town 311.59 810 2.59

Kospelavinne 450.28 1029 2.26

Batugedara 132.24 50 0.30

Kolandagala 90.39 360 5.60

Thiriwanaketiya 174.22 517 2.93

Angammana 103.87 562 5.43

Muwagama 105.49 74 5.50

Mudduwa 5.49 40 7.28

Samagipura 75.64 751 9.92

Mudduwa East 102.66 625 6.00

Source : Divisional Secretariat – Ratnapura – Resources Profile

21

According to the table above, the reason for higher residential density in

Mihindugama and Mahawala areas is long term leasing of Government lands as

small lots. Though non-residential usages have developed in Ratnapura town –

North, Ratnapura Town – East which belong to the town center, the residential

activities too has been placed with a much density. The main reason for above is the

existing facilities available in the town center. The reason to place more residential

usages within the adjacent urban divisions such as Muwagama, Mudduwa, Near

Devalaya which are close to the town center is the good availability of access within

those areas.

Though a medium residential density indicates within other areas, the reason to

indicate a very low density in Kolandagala area is due to locating the Angammana

reserve and low populated hill areas. (Map No. 06)

5.3 Housing Deficit

In determining the housing need around Ratnapura town, the main problem is this

area often vulnerable for natural disasters rather than other towns in Sri Lanka. The

area may need a more housing supply than the amount determined due to the

landslides and floods occur within heavy season.

The number of semi-permanent houses i.e. 1944 out of the existing housing units in

the town i.e. 9864 can be further developed in same places and the number of

temporary houses i.e. 249 which are located in flood prone areas also must be added

to the number of housing deficit as houses that must be re-constructed. The expected

housing deficit upto 2030 indicates in Table No. 13.

Table No. 13

Year Population Number of

Houses

Number of

Families

Housing

Deficit

2011 49085 9864 10908 1044

2016 52520 10603 11671 1068

2021 56197 11398 12488 1089

2026 60131 12253 13362 1109

2030 64340 13171 14298 1127

Source : Field Surveys of the Urban Development Authority

In determining the housing deficit above, the following assumptions too were used

in addition to the existing housing scarcity.

The population growth rate is 1.5

The number of members in a family is 4.5

The annual housing growth rate is 4.5

The annual houses depreciation is 1%

22

Accordingly, the number of new houses that must be constructed to solve the

housing deficit by 2030 is 1127.


Availability of temporary houses within the town.

Non-availability of sufficient houses according to the number of families in the

town and residing several families in one house.

Construction of houses in difficult areas where the infrastructure facilities

cannot provide.

As many temporary houses were constructed in unprotected and disaster prone

areas, the disaster vulnerability increases.

The land extent is too small because the land price in certain areas is too high.

Difficulty in providing infrastructure facilities and a planned road system as

the houses were built in hill areas.

5.5 Conclusions

The increasing tendency of housing density.

Further enhancing of housing need.

The improper land utilization occurs together with construction of houses.

24

Chapter 06

Economic Foundation

6.1 The Present Economic Foundation

Ratnapura town‟s economic activities are based on location and geographical

features. Accordingly, the town‟s economic foundation has determined on the gem

industry, agriculture, banks, financial affairs and administrative function.

Gem Industry

Ratnapura is a famous town for gem industry from ancient times Nationally and

Internationally.

As gem business has centralized to Ratnapura town, the businessmen arrive from

different areas for purchasing and selling of gems and therefore this town is often

important rather than other gems related towns. According to the records of Gems

and Jewelry Authority, the foreign exchange earned to our country during the period

of 1995 – 2011 is as follows. (Table No. 14)

Table No. 14

Gems Exporting Revenue from 1995 – 2011

Year Exchange Value

(Rs. Millions)

Year Rs. Millions

1995 4.9 2004 230.1

1996 6.8 2005 175.6

1997 4.7 2006 58.7

1998 2.8 2007 100.7

1999 3.8 2008 104.0

2000 3.8 2009 70.2

2001 15.42 2010 82.0

2002 17.98 2011 118.8

2003 26.74

Source : Gems and Jewelry Authority, Ratnapura

According to the Table No. 14 above, the gem exporting value in respect of the

gems exported from Ratnapura and its adjacent areas has been deviated. In

comparing the revenue of 2010 decade, the revenue received from the gem industry

shows a higher value but doesn‟t show a considerable difference in terms of the

present value of local currency.

25

Commercial Activities

The commercial activities in Ratnapura town carries out by both Government and

Private sectors.

Table No. 15

Density of Commercial Activities in Ratnapura Town – 2011

Business Category Number of Shops

1) Commercial banks, insurance Companies

2) Retail, wholesale services

3) Health services (Private)

4) Vehicle services

5) Consumer services

6) Production factories

7) Canteens

8) Food productions

9) Education services (Private)

10) Domestic productions

11) Tourism

56

710

20

65

143

250

83

54

144

49

77

Total 1651

Source : Municipal Trade License Documents – 2001

Daily Market / Wholesale Market

The market operates in Ratnapura town provides a large contribution for the town‟s

economy. The daily operated retail market and wholesale market here are important.

The people‟s daily necessities are fulfilled by the retail market and the wholesale

market is a source for commercial activities in external areas from the town.

Approximately 25 lorries per day arrive to the wholesale market. A new marketing

complex too has been constructed for this purpose.

Banks and Financial Institutions

56 Government and Private Financial Institutions have been established in the town

and their provincial offices are mostly located within the town. A higher number of

financial institutions that are operated in Sri Lanka have been established within the

town.

The increase of banking and financial activities and administrative functions than

last several years shows by drawing of more attention in respect of commercial

banks and administrative functions by a majority of urban people.

26

Agriculture Activities

A noticeable contribution of agriculture activities doesn‟t give within the urban

economy. The agriculture activities such as paddy, rubber and tea within the town

stay in a minimum level and the town is important as a center of providing services

for agriculture areas that are out of the town and a local marketing center of

agriculture products. Specially, adoption of raw materials for tea factories out of the

town is an important feature.

Administrative Activities

A large number of Government and semi-government institutions that are important

locally and regionally have centralized within the administrative zone of the new

town. The daily commuting people obtain services (locally and zonally) from the

urban area and therefore the commercial activities in urban area have been

expanded. Also, establishing of commercial sub centers in Weralupa Junction,

Court Junction, Hidellana Junction and expansion of residential activities due to the

employees in administrative zone and parallel to that the development of

infrastructure facilities have directly affected for the development of urban

economy.

6.2 The Employees Pattern in the Town

Table No. 16

Employees Pattern – 2013

Nature of the Occupation Amount Percentage

Government employments 3231 13

Security service 509 2

Teaching service 570 2

Private sector 6048 25

Self-employments 1739 7

Agriculture sector 2027 8

Business 3618 15

Estate laborers 824 13

Casual labor 3215 3

Others 613 2

Unemployed 2030 8

Foreign employments 485 2

Total 24909 100

Source : Divisional Secretariat – Resources Profile 2013

27

According to the table above, a more contribution for the economy within Ratnapura

urban area is given by the private sector and the business field. It is 40% from the

total employment. In addition to that, a contribution of 46% from Government

employees and casual laborers are given. A contribution of 34% from other fields is

given to the urban economy.


Generating of environmental problems because of the key economic activity of

the town is gem industry.

The revenue received from gem industry doesn‟t fully invest within the town.

(at least 10% from the said revenue is not fully invested)

Despite a large extent of lands are available for paddy cultivation, a further

decrease of agriculture sector can be seen due to destruction of crops by

disasters such as flood and abandon of paddy cultivation.

Rubber lands and Tea land are more fully directs for development.

6.4 Conclusions

Considering the development of economic activities within the town, it is seen

that the town basically operates as a consumer services providing center.

28

Chapter 07

Infrastructure Facilities

7.1 Physical Infrastructure Facilities

7.1.1 Main Roads and Railways

The main road link of town is Colombo – Badulla main road and by that links the

town, Western Province, Uva Province, Central Province and the Southern Province.

In addition to that, about three decades ago the railway was jointly operated across

the town in parallel to Badulla main road and presently operated only upto

Awissawella and therefore the railway transportation service was not functioned to

Ratnapura town. Re-establishment of said railway service is very important in

launching the common transport service in future. The whole lands owned by

railway line has presently captured by unpermitted residents.

Presently construction of a new railway line from Colombo to Kataragama across

Sabaragamuwa Province has been proposed. Although this railway line was destined

to operate upto Hambantota (away from Ratnapura Town), in future, its direct affect

to Ratnapura town may be occur.

Further, limited vehicle parking facilities and the existing vehicle congestion due to

parking vehicles in road sides are key problems. (Map No. 07)

Table No. 17

Classification of Roads – 2013

Road

Cat

egory

Tar

Pav

ed

Km

Gra

vel

Road

s K

m

Concr

ete

Road

s K

m

Foot

Pat

hs

Tota

l L

ength

km

.

Roads of Roads Development Authority 30.40 - - - 30.40

Provincial Council Roads 7.00 - - - 7.00

Urban Council Roads 91.25 20.00 15 55 181.25

Total 128.65 20.00 15 55 218.65

Source : Ratnapura Municipal Council, Roads Development Authority - Ratnapura

29

7.1.2 Transportation Services

The traffic flow in main roads of the town indicates by Table No. 18.

Table No. 18

The Traffic Flow within the Town – 2013

Category Percentage %

Regional traffic flow 21

Local traffic flow 79

Total 100

Source : Filed Surveys – 2013 Urban Development Authority, Sabaragamuwa Provincial Office

Vehicles pass out from the town using National roads move across the town center

and therefore those vehicles cumulate with the circulating vehicles within the area

using same road and traffic congestion occur while in the vehicle movement. Non-

availability of alternative roads is one reason for above.

Table No. 19 indicates the passenger transportation services who use the daily bus-

stops.

Table No. 19

Normal Daily Busses and Passenger Transportation – 2011

Met

hod o

f

Tra

nsp

ort

atio

n

Tota

l N

um

ber

of

Buss

es

Num

ber

of

Turn

s

Num

ber

of

Pas

senger

s

(Dai

ly)

Per

centa

ge

Public occupied transportation service 115 710 32990 34.20

Private bus service 500 1375 1375 65.80

Total 615 2085 2085 100.00

Source : Ratnapura Public Occupied Transportation Service and Sabaragamuwa Road Passengers

Transportation Authority

Mainly, the private bus service has been established in the area and services are

provided commonly for 133 routes.

In addition to above statistics, the number of buss running turns upto far areas such

as Colombo, Kegalle, Kandy, Monaragala, Badulla, Bandarawela, Hambantota, is

about 450 per day.

31

7.1.3 Telecommunication Service

The telephone facilities of the town are provided by both Government and private

sectors. Table No. 20 indicates the service provided by the Government sector.

Table No. 20

Telecom Connections and the Waiting List – 2013

(Ratnapura and adjacent area)

Type of Usage Number of Connections Amount According

to the Waiting List Amount Percentage

1. Residential

2. Commercial

3. Offices

4. Services

5. Religious

5759

855

682

128

49

77.06

11.44

9.13

1.71

0.66

1221

109

17

03

06

Total 7473 11.44 1356

Source : Sri Lanka Telecom Provincial Office, Ratnapura

Mainly, the domestic telephones with Telecom cables are available within the town

and adjacent areas. Also, the number of applicants who wish to obtain the Telecom

connection by 2011 has been increased.

A rapid increase of mobile telephone usage can be seen in residential areas situated

away from the town center to where the Telecom connection cannot be provided.

Presently, 09 mobile telephone towers have been constructed within the urban limit

and 06 out of them are land towers and the rest were constructed on the buildings.

7.1.4 Electricity Supply

The details about electricity consumption in the town indicates by Table No. 22

Table No. 21

Electricity Consumption – 2012

Consumption Sector Number of

Connections

Percentage

Residential

Commercial Institutions

Government and Semi-Government Institutions

Industries

Religious

60142

6526

138

85

360

80.52

17.61

1.11

0.42

0.34

Total 67251 100.00

Source : Electric Engineering Office, Ratnapura

32

The electricity supply within urban domain is being carried out by Lanka Electricity

Board. The total number of consumers is 67251 and most of the electricity

connection was given to residential purposes which are about 80.52%. In addition to

this, 17% is used for commercial purposes. Accordingly, it is clear that the

electricity consumption has been established mainly on residential usages.

(Map No. 08)

7.1.5 Supply of Drinking Water

Supply of pipe water within the town is being carried by the National Water Supply

Drainage Board. The length of water supply ways within the town is approximately

75 km. The daily individual water consumption in the town is 120 liters and it is

insufficient for urban consumption. Five (05) water collecting tanks within the town

are available and their total capacity is 4500 m2.

Table No. 23 describes the water connection amount according to the usages.

Table No. 22

Water Consumption – 2012

Usage Number of

Connections

Percentage

Residential 6447 80.89

Commercial 1233 15.47

Industries 44 0.55

Government Institutions (together with schools) 196 2.46

Religious 42 0.53

Hotels 08 0.10

Total 7970 100.0

Source : National Water Supply and Drainage Board

The water supply is mainly directed for residential usage and has obtained only 79.5% from the total number of houses. Certain areas where the water supply is not available, unprotected wells and river water is being used and this is an unprotected situation. About 150 Nos. of common taps within the town for low income residences and for usage of migrants who arrive to the town have been established by the Municipal Council. However, it has been proposed to establish a new pipe line system and increase the water supply volume accordingly.

7.1.6 Rain Water Drainage System

The main drainage system in the town is mainly with Kalu Ganga. Due to existing

drainage system constructed within the town, not only rain water but waste water too

has been directed to the natural drainage system. The reason for this, is directing

34

waste water from canteens (in the town) to rain water drainage system. The details

about present available drainages indicate by Table No. 23.

Table No. 23

Drainage System – 2012

Category Length in 2012

(in km.)

Length

(in km.)

Percentage

Cement / concrete drainages

Unconstructed drainages

20.9

101

17.5

13.5

56.45

43.54

Total 31.0 100.0

Source : Ratnapura Municipal Council

The total length of existing drainages in the town is 31 km. and a part of them are

rain water drainages developed under the Sector of Urban Development Project by

financial aids received from Asian Development Bank. These are constructed with

cement and the other part is not constructed.

7.1.7 Disposal of Solid Waste

Presently about 32 mt. of solid waste per day collects in the town. Due to non-

availability of sufficient resources with the Municipal Council to remove them, the

collection of waste is carried out in the night. A project for manufacturing of

compost from waste has been established by Sewanatha Institution and United

Nations‟ Development Project (UNDP) which is operated by the Provincial

Institution. Disposal of Waste into the land situated at Kanadola area where about 3

km away from the town center, doesn‟t carried out according to a standard system.

Further, due to disposal of this waste without a classification, number of health

problems have been arisen.

7.1.8 Sewage System

The sewage system within the town describes by Table No. 24.

Table No. 24

Sewage Systems – 2011

Toilet Types Amount Percentage

Water-seal toilets

Pit latrine

Others

5687

2192

369

69.58

25.98

4.44

Total 100.00

Source : Ratnapura Divisional Secretariat and Ratnapura Municipal Council

35

A medium scale sewage system is not available within this town. About 1500 from

the existing houses within the urban limit do not have sufficient toilet facilities.

Also, about 2500 houses make unprotected sewage to which the reason is congestion

of urban settlements and low income situation. Unprotected sewage situation badly

affects to the health of public living in said area and adjacent area.

7.2 Social Infrastructure Facilities

7.2.1 Health Facilities

The urban health facilities are developed based on the Ratnapura Provincial General

Hospital. In comparing year 2003, the number of in-patients has been increased by

more than Hundred Thousand. Many special services within Ratnapura town are

conducted by the Ratnapura Provincial General Hospital which indicates by Table

No. 25

Table No. 25

Ratnapura Provincial General Hospital - Facilities and Staff Composition – 2012

Yea

r

Nu

mb

er o

f B

eds

Nu

mb

er o

f In

-

pati

ents

Bed

s/P

ati

ents

Rati

o (

Dail

y)

Ou

tpati

ents

(p

er

day)

Doct

ors

Doct

ors

/

Pati

ents

Rati

o

Sp

ecia

list

Doct

ors

Nu

rses/

Male

Nu

rses

Oth

er S

taff

Pati

ents

arr

ive

to

the

Cli

nic

(p

er

day)

Per

cen

tage

of

bed

s acc

ord

ing t

o

the

pati

ents

2013 1057 116749 1.2:1 924 207 1:1.3 32 674 945 1112 82%

2003 964 1600 1:7 2100 142 11:3 20 366 575 - -

Source : Ratnapura General Hospital

In addition to above, services are provided to urban people by three hospitals with

facilities, an ayurvedic hospital and three private specialist services centers/

36

7.2.2 Education

Table No. 26 indicates the education facilities within the town.

Table No. 26

Condition of Schools and Facilities – 2011

Total Students

Nu

mb

er o

f

Tea

cher

s

Tea

cher

s /

Stu

den

t

Ra

tio

Na

me

of

the

Sch

oo

l

Sch

oo

l

Ca

teg

ory

Cla

ss R

an

ge

Nu

mb

er o

f

Cla

sses

Fem

ale

Ma

le

To

tal

Sri Sumana Maha Vidyalaya 1AB 1-13 26 276 293 563 38 1:15

Boys‟ School (Kumara Vidyalaya) 1AB 1-13 32 0 1181 1181 54 1:22

Seewali Central College 1AB 1-13 62 1963 653 2616 140 1:19

Infant Jesus Convent 1AB 1-13 54 51 1683 1734 36 1:20

Aloysius National School 1AB 1-13 66 0 2769 2769 100 1:28

Sumana Balika Vidyalaya 1AB 1-13 97 3573 249 3838 146 1:26

Ferguson Girls‟ High School 1AB 1-13 100 4012 243 4255 169 1:25

Seewali Maha Vidyalaya IC 1-13 14 135 223 358 25 1:14

Royal College IC 1-13 17 156 229 385 31 1:12

Almachiya Muslim Maha Vidyalaya IC 1-13 22 313 397 710 27 1:26

Batugedara Maha Vidyalaya IC 1-13 29 463 474 937 44 1:21

St. Looks Vidyalaya IC 1-13 28 665 326 991 47 1:21

Dharmapala Maha Vidyalaya IC 1-13 34 780 516 1296 53 1:24

Ratnapura Mihindu Vidyalaya IC 1-13 40 933 644 1577 55 1:29

Kospelavinne Vidyalaya Type-2 1-11 11 40 27 67 14 1:5

Thiriwanaketiya Vidyalaya Type-2 1-11 11 71 67 138 19 1:7

Godigamuwa Vidyalaya Type-2 1-11 11 129 77 206 15 1:14

Hidellana Tamil College Type-2 1-11 11 184 209 393 21 1:19

Ananda College Type-2 1-11 22 293 338 631 34 1:19

Heffield Maha Vidyalaya Type-2 1-5 5 13 11 24 3 1:8

Nivi / Mahawala Tamil College Type-2 1-5 5 18 18 36 3 1:12

Source : Divisional Education Office, Ratnapura

According to Table No. 26, the Teacher/Student ratio in commonly considering 21

schools in the town is 1:25. As it is less than the standard rate i.e. 1:40, stays in a

optimum level.

37

7.2.3 Open and Outdoor Spaces

Leisure and Recreational Facilities

The leisure and Recreational activities within the town have been illustrated

follows. (Table No. 27)

Table No. 27

Leisure and Recreation Facilities – 2013

Category Amount

Leisure Facilities

Inns

Game Clubs

School Playgrounds

Museum and its around Park

Gems Museum

Public Library

Town Hall

Large Playgrounds

Children‟s Parks

Recreation Activities

Katugasella

Cinemas

Pompakele Park

Children‟s Park

Swimming Pools

Others

Urban Cemetery

01

01

07

01

03

01

01

02

01

01

02

01

03

02

06

Source : Urban Development Authority – Sabaragamuwa Provincial Office

In addition to above-mentioned leisure and recreational activities, lands have

been allocated for a children‟s park and a cultural center according to the

Ratnapura New Town Development Project Plan.

The existing common open air lands

The recreational facilities will be considered under 02 main components as

direct and indirect recreational facilities. Spaces are required in which the

public can actively participate under direct recreational activities. Sports

activities, swimming, running, walking, boating and fishing are examples. A

limited number of such places are available within Ratnapura Municipal

Council domain as described under Table No. 28.

38

Table No. 28

Public Outdoor Recreation Spaces

Serial

No.

Name of the Open Land Extent

(Hectares)

01. Ratnapura New Town Indoor Stadium and Playground 1.6

02. Children‟s Park and Forest 0.4

03. Monarawila Playground 0.8

04. Mudduwa Playground and Children‟s Park 1.6

05. Seewali Stadium and Playground 2.6

06. Children‟s Park around Kalu Ganga 0.2

Total 6.6

01. Ratnapura Seewali Stadium – (2.0 ha)

This is a playground having pavilions and all infrastructure facilities which

presently used for direct and indirect recreational activities.

02. The Children’s Park bounded to Kalu Ganga (0.2 ha)

This area is a children‟s park constructed with every game accessories.

Access doors have constructed in two places. As stated above, unauthorized

settlers stay in this place and looks like an abandoned place without taking

any advantage for leisure activities. This can be further developed and the

children‟s park was constructed within river reservation.

According to the information in Table No. 28, the extent of present available

open lands within Ratnapura Municipal Council limit is 6.6 hectares. 68.71

hectares must have been allocated for the existing population i.e. 49,083. By

this means that there is no public outdoor recreation spaces at least for the

existing population within the town.

The places where indirect recreational activities can be obtained are as

follows.

01. Public Library – 02

a. Ratnapura town center

b. Ratnapura new town

02. Cinema – 03

a. Jothi – Bandaranaike Mawatha (number of seats 200 – 250)

b. Lakshmi – Municipal Council area (number of seats 200 – 250)

c. Imperial – near Telecom Institution (number of seats 200 – 250)

39

03. Theatres

Presently the town hall is used to show dramas under minimum

facilities.


Roads

Road development is difficult as the town is located in a trough.

The town center often vulnerable to floods as the Kalu Ganga floors closely to

the town center.

The space for transportation in the town is insufficient.

Development works get weakened due to limitation of road development in

common.

Vehicle congestion occurs due to non-availability of vehicle parks in the town

center area.

The railway transportation has been abandoned and therefore severe road

transportation congestion occurs.

Non-availability of alternative roads except the main road.

Escalating of road damaging speed due to natural disasters such as floods.

Limitation of road development due to unauthorized constructions.

Solid Waste Management

The existing Kanadola land area is insufficient to discard rubbish.

Arising of health problems due to non-availability of a standard classification.

Supply of Drinking Water

River water is more fully used for drinking water.

Usage of unprotected wells in areas where water supply is not available.

Scarcity of suitable water sources to obtain water sufficiently.

Rain Water Drainages

Pollution of natural water due to directing the wastage to natural rain water

drainages.

Non-availability of side gutters in many areas, the gutters get closed, not duly

maintained and gutters get clouded due to falling of soil crumbs.

Electricity Supply

The street lightning in the town is not duly maintained.

The electricity has not supplied for certain areas.

40

Less lightning situation in certain areas.

The electricity supply get often disconnected.

Education

Insufficiency of spaces in schools of town center.

Non-availability of playground facilities for schools.

Health Facilities

Non-availability of enough beds for inpatients in the General Hospital.

Non-availability of water facilities.

Scarcity of specialist doctors.

7.4 Conclusions

The existing road system must be further developed.

Construction of new bye roads is required.

The drainage system of town must be arranged under a methodical plan.

Sufficient water supply must be provided for urban people.

Playground facilities and building facilities required for schools in education

field need to be expanded.

41

Chapter 08

Environmental Assets

8.1 Sensitive Areas

Conserved Areas

Pompakele reserve, Angammana reserve, Buddhist Palace, Ehelepola Demesne

and Dutch Fort in Ratnapura town are allocated as conserved areas.

Scenic Places

Several scenic places are available in the town such as Katugasella, Ananda

Maithree Temple, Pompakele Reserve and its natural swimming pool. In

addition to above, the Ratnapura Inn can be mentioned as a scenic place.

Cultural and Archaeological Places

The Ehelepola Demesne – this is a main place where Ehelepola Disawe lived

in the era of last Sinhala King. Development works to convert it as the

Ratnapura museum is presently being carried out.

Religious Places

Ratnapura Maha Saman Devalaya – this had been used as a Dutch Fort and

duties related to Maha Saman Devalaya are presently being carried out.

Additionally, the annual Esala Maha Perahera is distinctively conducted here.

Architectural Creations and Archaeological Places

The Holland Fort in Ratnapura town had been used as a fort by Dutch. The

Gems and Jewelry Authority‟s office is presently located here. Additionally,

Ratnapura Police Station and Buddhist Palace are the places consist with an

architectural value.

8.2 Natural Disasters

Ratnapura town has named as a very sensitive area by National level plans.

Ratnapura town consists with characters like steep hillside areas, low lands and

plains. It locates within a range of 18 meters (minimum) and 305 meters (maximum)

height from the sea level.

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Ratnapura town is situated in a basin trough consist with plains, low lands and steep

slopes which are rich of red and yellow Podzolic soil and trees canopy and natural

water resources. In considering the climate of the zone where town is located, it has

been discovered by examining the remote history that the most effective factor for

calamities or disasters is the aforesaid location.

It has been reported that the town face to floods and landslips time to time due to its

physical and climatic location and therefore, an extensive effect occurs to human

settlements. Further, due to availability of brown soil, liquid soil and clayey soil in

the town center, the water absorption speed has been increased. Accordingly, the

town‟s physical location, various forms of climatic and weather patterns indicates a

tendency to occur natural disasters.

8.2.1 Identified Disasters

Landslips

Ratnapura is a town which often victims to multiple disasters and the most serious

disasters are flood and landslides. Landslides occur in various forms. Accordingly,

each to other different landslides like falling of stones, slipping of soil crumbs,

falling of soil layers in steep slopes, falling of weak rocks due to human activities

can be seen. Godigamuwa, Pompakele, Samangipura, Dharmayathana, Muwagama

Mountain (the place to where wastage is discarded), Helauda Kanda, Mihindugama,

Mahawela, Thiriwanaketiya and Mihitiya can be cited as identified landslip areas.

The huge flood disasters occurred in remote history i.e. 1913, 1947, 1978, 2003 and

the terrible landslip occurred in the town in 1992 can be taken as the best examples

for above. (Not in the town limit but very close to there) Landslides occurred in

Ratnapura, the terrible landslide occurred in 1982 by which obstructing Badulla

main road at Pathulpana area and the macabre landslides occurred at Palawela area

where close to Ratnapura are in chief among the disasters brought dangerous

experiences to urban people. About 10 and 75 personnel were died respectively by

these landslides. Therefore, Ratnapura is famous for gems and deadly floods and

landslides as well.

Floods

Kalu Ganga and Way Ganga which floor across the town mostly overflows in

monsoon season and induces flood disasters to Ratnapura urban limit and its outside

zone by which make big effects to public lives. According to the rivers

classification, other characters, the drainage network in the zone, it severely effect to

become terrible the flood situation as aforesaid river associated area.

In addition to these floods, the town area faces to sudden and urban flood disasters

too. The illegal constructions, unpermitted land reclamations in low lands and

unauthorized captures from reserves and there unauthorized constructions which

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cause to block the drainage system in the town have given an extensive contribution

to occur these sudden urban floods. The weaknesses and blockage of the natural

drainage network is across the town intensify the aforesaid sudden and urban floods.

Godigamuwa, Near Devalaya, Batugedara, Muwagama, Angammana, Kospelavinne,

Ratnapura town center, Weralupa, Thiriwanaketiya and Mudduwa are the identified

flood areas.

Scour of Soil

An intensifying tendency of victimizing to floods and landslides due to soil scouring

in slope areas and mountain areas after depositing them in river and water resources

has been identified.

Other Disasters

In addition to the main disasters i.e. floods and landslides, the situations such as hard

wind, strong wind, slight draughts and thunder have been identified as natural

disasters.

Areas such as Godigamuwa, New Town, Muwagama, Mahawela and Batugedara

occur strong wind.

8.2.2 Disaster Vulnerability Assessment

The disaster areas and disaster risk in Ratnapura area have been taken into a map by

“The Project to Arrange Strategies to reduce the Disaster Risk in Sri Lanka”

implemented by the United Nations Human Settlement Development Programme”.

Accordingly, it is indicated that more areas in Ratnapura town face to flood disasters

and in considering the risk of landslide (Map No. 09), it is established that a high

disaster risk can be seen to occur landslide and falling of embankments due to

irregular usage of slope areas.

In considering the pattern of occurring disasters in Ratnapura town (Map No. 10), it

is indicated that the number of people who face to disasters has been decreased

gradually and the number of people who face to disasters due to hard wind has been

increased.

The two main disasters occur within Ratnapura urban limit i.e. landslide and flood

situations, the risk zones in Ratnapura town indicate by Map No. 11 as a whole. In

planning Ratnapura town, reducing of risk in long term is a special target of the

development plan by limiting development works in these main disaster risk zones.

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8.3 Main problems related to disasters in the town

Problem Description Location

The residents in low lands

bring damages to roads and

resources

Ratnapura town is located in a basin

trough and as the catchment of higher

waterfall areas

Batugedara,

Muwagama

Improper situation of the

drainage system, weak and

improper prevalence of the

drainage system, bridges,

arches, canals.

The flood intensifies due to joining

Kalu Ganga and Way Ganga in the

town center.

Demuwawatha

Residing unauthorized settlers

in marginal lands and river

reservation

Maintaining of a river reservation

according to the hydrological and

ecological importance. The low income

settlers practice to live in low price

lands.

Pulungupitiya,

Thanakola Kotuwa,

Pattiyaovita,

Goodshed Road,

Mudduwa, places in

Pelwadiya from

East.

Inundation Low land areas Katugasella,

Thanakola Kotuwa,

Pulungupitiya.

Irregular mining, collecting of

sand.

Although Ratnapura is famous for

mining, the landslips abound due to

illegal mining and collecting of sand is

a problem and therefore landslip occur

as a long term problem. The river

width increases due to falling of river

edges in cause of sand collecting and

therefore the underground water and

water level becomes low.

Godawela paddy

land

Inability to protect from

disasters

Vulnerable to diseases and flies

calamities even after ending of a flood

situation in Ratnapura town can be seen

Ratnapura Urban

Limit

No economic and social

position to face calamities

Disasters can be sustained if good

economic strength available.

Ratnapura Urban

Limit

The low quality of road system

and development works are

done without complying with

rules.

Obstacles and damages occur to many

roads human activities due to floods.

Godawela Road,

Near Devalaya,

Demuwawatha

Development works are done

without complying with the

existing effective rules and

regulations

Although the regulations are legalized,

the illegal development works are done

in these areas.

Mahawaala

Non availability of disposal

solid waste

Environmental and social problems

arise in the place where solid waste are

discarded.

Muwagama

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Chapter 09

Situational Analysis

9.1 Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and Threats in Ratnapura area

Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Effects / Obstacles

Location 1. Availability of a centralized

place by which can maintain direct relationships with Western, Southern, Uva and North Western Provinces.

2. Sabaragamuwa Provincial Capital and Ratnapura District Capital

Ways to develop local relationships upon the irregularity of the land as it is located in a trough, become minimum.

Located by connecting to a National level road network. Hambantota harbor and the airport are located in an equal distance. A landmark by which connects the East and West of Sri Lanka.

Rapid development of suburbs in Ratnapura district. Eg : Embilipitiya Victimize to disaster situations time to time as located in the medium sensitive zone.

3. Maintained as the Provincial capital from a long period.

Physical obstacles occur while in development works in the existing old town.

Possibility to expand the Municipal Council limit

Often vulnerable to natural disasters Inability of directing to speedy development as located in the medium sensitive area.

4. Population i. Availability of more

manpower

Less availability of technically trained manpower Increase of the dependents

The active workable population takes a higher value and possibility to deploy them for new factories etc… after giving a training.

The male rate increases and

the population growth decreases gradually.

People migrate from the town

as the existing spaces are insufficient that are available around the town for settlements.

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5. Land Utilization

i. 26.7% from the lands that

were not developed can be

developed

ii. Availability of 295.09

hectares as urban forests

and forest cultivations in

the catchment area.

Improper land utilization, utilization of inappropriate land to development

Possibility of using 10% for leisure activities from forest cultivations together with the said cultivation.

Often flood situations occur due to flowing Kalu Ganga from town center. Adoption of hillsides forests and agriculture lands for land development works.

7. Economy i. Gem industry and its associated industries.

(a) Mining

(b) Gem cutting and polishing

(c) Gem purchasing business ii. Wholesale and retail business – The main wholesale markets in Ratnapura district (SATHOSA/Co-operative Society/Private wholesale places and Keels Food City)

Although gems and its associate businesses are available in Ratnapura, the money earned floors to Colombo and other areas. Arising health threats due to non-closing of finalized industries. Irregular placement of commercial activities. Due to above reason, problems arise such as vehicle congestion in cause of the insufficient parking spaces.

The International goodwill to Ratnapura town in respect of gems There is a possibility to get big advantages through a systematic development. The town has a high demand as it is the district capital.

Commencement of gem market in adjoining towns too. The area which is more commercialized gets risk of often flood.

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7. Industries

(a) Availability of many small

industries and handicrafts.

(jewelry, gems cutting

etc…)

(b) Several Tea factories also

available to prepare tea.

Non-availability of sufficient spaces to establish industries within the urban limit. Reducing of production volume upon the climatic and weather factors.

Establishment of Kuruvita Industrial Area away from a distance of 5 km. from the town. Ratnapura town can be further developed as the key supply center of service facilities for Kuruvita Industrial Area.

The competition with foreign countries for handicraft and gem industry. Many lands are ecologically sensitive and therefore situations such as soil scour, landslides occur due to tea plantation. Less interest of investors due to roads and transportation difficulties.

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