December 08, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Irrigation has confirmed that water levels across the country’s reservoirs have now settled, signalling a gradual return to normal after days of unsettled weather.
L. S. Sooriyabandara, Director of Irrigation (Hydrology & Disaster Management), said readings from monitoring stations show that none of the reservoirs is currently at a critical threshold. He explained that although several key catchment zones recorded notable rainfall over the past day — in some areas between 50 and 100 millimetres — the volumes remain manageable.
According to Sooriyabandara, the Kelani and Kalu Ganga basins experienced the heaviest showers, while the Gin Ganga, Nilwala Ganga and Attanagalu Oya regions also saw around 50 millimetres of rain. Even so, he noted that these levels are unlikely to trigger any significant surge in river flows, and he urged the public to remain calm.
As a precautionary measure and to maintain optimal reservoir balance, spill gates have been opened at close to 30 major reservoirs, including Rajanganaya, Deduru Oya, Nachchaduwa, Senanayake Samudraya, Weheragala and Lunugamvehera. The releases, he said, are being managed carefully, taking into account upcoming weather patterns and the broader needs of the water system.
With further rain expected in the days ahead, Sooriyabandara advised residents to stay alert to official notices. The department, he added, will continue to issue regular updates as conditions evolve.
