Hydro- electric power which had dropped to an all-time low of 14 percent due to the drought has now increased to 30 percent with the monsoon rains in catchment areas, a spokesman said yesterday.

Due to the prolonged dry spell, the water levels of the major reservoirs had dropped, compelling the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) to depend on thermal power for the country’s electricity requirements.

However, the central hills have experienced rainfall during the last few days. Two sluice gates of the Laxapana Reservoir were opened yesterday to discharge excess water. The area experienced a rainfall of 100 millimeters.

The water levels of Castlereagh and Maussakele Reservoirs have also risen. (Ranjith Rajapakshe)