Sri Lankan Government has decided to appoint a committee to study the Uma Oya multipurpose development project which was commenced by the previous government.

The committee appointed by the government will be headed by Prof. Kapila Dahanayaka, a Senior Professor of Geology. The committee will also include nine members who have experience in related fields.

The project was initiated by the former government in order to transfer water from the river to the Lunugamwehera Reservoir and provide water for developmental projects in Hambanthota district.

But it has been temporarily suspended by the current government following continuous protests against the project in the Uva Province. Many parties pointed out that there were serious environmental implications stemming from the project.

Uma Oya Multipurpose development project was scheduled to be completed by an Iranian company named Farab within five years.

Now the government is to make the final decision on the procedure of the project after receiving the report by newly appointed committee.