The village of Kokunnewagama is a rural farming community with approximately 450 residents, located near Nochchiyagama in the Anuradhapura district. Like many other farming communities in the northern and central regions, Kokunnewagama has been grappling with the pervasive issue of drinking water contamination, which has led to various forms of kidney diseases among its residents. In response to a heartfelt request for assistance from the community, a water purification project was initiated.

After evaluating several reverse osmosis (RO) system suppliers, 'Rajarata RO Systems,' a company based in Anuradhapura city with years of experience in water filtering systems and a track record in charitable projects, was selected. For a negotiated sum of Rs 750,000, they agreed to deliver a comprehensive filtering system, complete with one-year maintenance and a five-year warranty for hardware components.

Construction of the building to house the filtering system and storage tanks commenced on April 18, 2024, at the auspicious hour of 6:17 a.m., under the blessing of the village's resident Buddhist priest, Ven. Welimada Dhamma Wimukthi Thero. The small brick building spans a floor area of 11x14 feet and will have an asbestos roof.

The project inauguration received an outpouring of support from the residents of Kokunnewagama eager to contribute, reflecting the community's hopefulness for this much-needed endeavor.

Kokunnewagama, like Demetawewa (a previous water project), is a rice farming community and a crucial contributor to the country’s food supply. Life in Kokunnewagama is filled with daily struggles, including poverty, limited access to healthcare and education, and unsafe drinking water. This situation is mirrored in many villages across the entire north-central region. While a water filtering system cannot address all these challenges, it serves as a vital lifeline for this deserving farming community.