Contribution of British Colonial Rule to the Conservation and Maintenance of Ancient Irrigation Works in Sri Lanka

The earliest irrigation system in Sri Lanka dates back to the sixth century BC. It had reached its peak of development around twelfth AD. With migration civilization southwest, arid zone was overgrown and destroyed by abandonment ancient industries. But many old industries are still active today as living heritage. This due conservation maintenance done local rulers well colonial who ruled country. purpose this research trace contribution British country for more than a industry. problem here is what kind during rule on Ceylon. Because based qualitative approach, methodology used case studies study archival records documents, direct observation, examination physical archeological remains. system, which widespread throughout dry plains, initially protected people built it work state machinery itself. Centuries after collapse civilization, rediscovered identified, proposals were made rule. In addition, funding industry implementation small large-scale programs, formulation laws, regulations, institutions work, important processes period.