Kelani River rise threatens Ambatale Water Plant; Colombo supply at risk– NWSDB

The National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) said that several water sources and water treatment plants under its management have been submerged due to the severe islandwide flooding.

NWSDB Chairman Chandana Bandara said that rising floodwaters have made it impossible to operate pumps at several key water sources. He said that many water treatment facilities have also gone underwater, disrupting both pumping and purification operations across multiple districts.

According to the Chairman, water pumping stations and treatment plants in the Kandy District are completely submerged, and restoration efforts are expected to take time. Water supply interruptions have also been reported in Kegalle and Mawanella.

In addition, pumping stations in parts of the North Central Province, Sabaragamuwa, and Uva are currently fully submerged, further impacting distribution networks.

Meanwhile, the Western Province has not yet experienced water supply disruptions. However, the Irrigation Department and Disaster Management authorities have warned of a rapid rise in the Kelani River. If the river level increases by 7 feet, the Ambatale Water Treatment Plant may face serious operational challenges.

The Chairman cautioned that such a scenario could lead to water supply disruptions in Colombo, though all efforts will be made to maintain uninterrupted service.