Physical and Ecological impacts of Improper Solid Waste Disposal Activities A Study on A Selected Area of the Mahaweli River

Abstract : Water is essential for life, yet it is one of the most poorly managed resources globally. improper solid waste disposal and river water pollution are growing environmental issues in Sri Lanka. The study was conducted based on quantitative and qualitative analysis and aimed to identify the physical and ecological impacts resulting from improper solid waste disposal in the Mahaweli River basin, which stretches from Peradeniya to the Polgolla Dam in the Kandy district. Primary data collection methods, such as direct observation, questionnaires, discussions, and interviews, as well as secondary data sources like divisional secretariat reports, websites, research reports, municipal council records, and books, were employed. The Solvin Method was used for sampling in 22 villages along the riverbanks, with 100 questionnaires distributed randomly. Data analysis was conducted using software like ArcGIS 10.8, Google Earth Pro, OpenStreetMap, and Microsoft Excel 2019. Areas where solid waste was deposited in the river were digitized and photographed. The study identified several critical issues in the area, including flood, drain blockages, challenges in dam implementation, health impacts, variations in water quality, damage to biodiversity, soil degradation, natural beauty deterioration, and plastic pollution. To address these issues, the study proposes management measures to prevent and reduce improper solid waste disposal, techniques for removing solid waste accumulation in the river, and alternative recommendations and guidelines to reduce solid waste in the study area.