The indifference of the governing authorities to address the unsafe and unprotected wells in the Islands of the Northern Province – Nainativu, Karainagar, Delft, Analathivu, and Punkuduthivu – continues to result in deaths. This issue, which has existed for years, has recently drawn increased attention due to the rising number of fatalities, particularly among children. These deaths are not confined to the Islands, as similar incidents have been reported in areas such as Vadamarachchi and Point Pedro.

Unsafe wells: A persistent hazard

The Islands are surrounded by the sea, forcing residents to rely on groundwater from the wells for drinking, bathing, and farming. Despite the presence of a few seawater purifying centres, most islanders depend heavily on these wells for their daily water-related needs. Unfortunately, many of these wells lack protective walls, thus increasing the risk of accidental falls.

For instance, the geologic history of the Jaffna Peninsula, with its Miocene limestone formations, supports groundwater storage that sustains life during dry seasons. However, the lack of safety measures around wells has turned this life sustaining resource into a source of tragedy.

Rising fatalities: A grim reality

Statistics from the Jaffna Teaching Hospital (TH) reveal that from 2017 to 2022, 43 deaths occurred due to drowning in wells in the islands, averaging five deaths per year. These numbers highlight an alarming trend in preventable deaths. The Coroner of the Jaffna TH emphasised the urgent need to identify and safeguard unsafe wells to curb these fatalities.

Heartbreaking stories

During a visit to the Islands, our team witnessed the aftermath of a recent accident where a child had fallen into a well and died. The child’s grieving mother remained inconsolable, unable to accept the loss.

Children often fall victim to these hazards. One 10-year-old boy recounted his narrow escape when he fell into a well at age six and was rescued by his father. “I fell into a well at the age of six. My father was there, and he jumped down and lifted me up,” he said, smiling, unaware of how close he had come to death.

Public wells, which many villagers rely on, are particularly dangerous. Located in fields or common areas, these wells often have low or no protective bunds, leaving children, the elderly, and even cattle vulnerable to accidental falls.

Challenges

The residents of these Islands face numerous economic challenges. Generations of poverty, compounded by the aftermath of decades of internal conflict, have left many villagers unable to afford safer infrastructure. The absence of proper fencing around wells and the lack of community resources exacerbate the problem.

The rainy season further heightens the risk. Flooded lowlands obscure the locations of wells, making it difficult for villagers and animals to avoid accidental falls.

The role of authorities & community

In 2015, a court order mandated the authorities to identify unsafe wells and construct protective fences. However, implementation has been slow, leaving villagers to fend for themselves. The Jaffna TH has taken steps to address the issue by advocating for guidelines and engaging with the authorities to prevent such tragedies.

A call to action

Immediate measures are essential to prevent further loss of life. The authorities must prioritise the construction of safe wells with proper fences, while the community must work together to raise awareness and pool resources.

The people of the Islands, who already endure daily challenges in accessing basic goods and services, deserve safe access to water – a fundamental necessity of life. Collaborative efforts between the government, local leaders, and residents can make a significant difference in saving lives and improving living conditions in these vulnerable regions.

(Basnayake is a final year student at the Jaffna University’s Medical Faculty while Vinothini is a media professional)

…………………………………………………………………………………………………….

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect those of this publication