July 2006
The sluice gates were closed and military operations began later that month.
Military history archive · 2006
Operation Watershed — Mavil Aru
The operation to regain control of the Mavil Aru sluice gates and restore the water supply to affected communities.
Historical overview
In July 2006, the closure of the Mavil Aru sluice gates disrupted water supplies for communities and agricultural land in eastern Sri Lanka. The government launched a military operation to regain access to the sluice-gate complex.
The operation began the wider Eastern campaign of 2006–2007. Official military accounts describe infantry and specialist forces operating with air, artillery, engineering and other support. The fighting also caused civilian displacement in surrounding areas.
Chronology
Key milestones
August 2006
Government forces regained control and the sluice gates were reopened.
2006–2007
Military operations expanded across the Eastern Province.
Personnel and service
Participating units
Unit-level records have not yet been added to this entry. Add verified regimental histories, official operational records or other reliable references before publishing specific unit participation.
Commanders and officers
Verified commander and officer records are awaiting documentation.
Fallen heroes
This memorial section is intended to honour military personnel who died in connection with this operation. Names, ranks, units and dates should be included only when supported by official memorial records or other reliable documentation.
Individual casualty records have not yet been verified for this entry. This does not mean that there were no casualties; consult documented memorial and service records before adding names or figures.
Documentation