Water-related traditional and indigenous practices: A global review and case study from tank-cascade systems in Sri Lanka

Indigenous knowledge and traditional water-related practices that were characteristics of some ancient civilizations have been the foundation for modern water resources management techniques at the global level. The early civilization of Mesepothemia capitalized on a gravity-fed system of irrigation canals, water diversion structures in Java islands, and the “Djessure” irrigation technique in Tunisia have been reported, in addition to the water purification practices in Egypt and India. This study focuses on identifying the water-related Indigenous practices and traditions globally and most importantly focuses on Sri Lanka as a pioneering case study for tank irrigation practices. The ancient craftsmanship of constructing irrigation tanks as tank-cascade systems combined with ancient tank reservations, sediment trapping tanks, and sluice front ridges has been started in 6th century BC in Sri Lanka. Historical strategies of inter-basin water diversions have been practiced since the 1st century BC To minimize evaporation, forest-based tank reservations were maintained, and a salinity interceptor belt was used to control salinization in the irrigation command area. In addition, spatial and temporal water allocation systems were practiced. The chapter further discusses the Indigenous practices for conflict resolution, such as temporal sharing of land tenure, seasonal meetings, rotational water sharing as well as water-related traditional ceremonies honoring the gods.