Tab Article

Ratings: ★★★★★ (4.5/5)
Genre: History / Irrigation Engineering / Agricultural History / Sri Lankan Non‑Fiction

Book Review:
The History of Irrigation and Agricultural Colonization in Ceylon by R. L. Brohier – renowned Sri Lankan historian, surveyor, and irrigation expert – focuses on the Tamankaduwa District and the historic Elahera-Minneriya Canal. This work documents the ancient irrigation engineering of Sri Lanka's Dry Zone, including the great tanks constructed by ancient Sinhalese kings such as Mahasen. It also examines agricultural colonization patterns and the revival of these systems during British colonial rule. Brohier (1892–1980), a former officer of the Ceylon Irrigation Department, is celebrated for his authoritative works on ancient irrigation, cartography, and Sri Lankan history. Essential reading for historians, engineers, archaeologists, and anyone interested in Sri Lanka's hydraulic civilization.