President chairs high-level meeting on El Niño preparedness

Colombo, June 11 (Daily Mirror) - A discussion to assess the potential impacts of the anticipated El Niño phenomenon and the preparedness measures of relevant institutions was held this morning (11) at the Presidential Secretariat under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

According to the President's Media Division (PMD), the meeting brought together representatives from key agencies, including the Department of Meteorology, Department of Irrigation, Central Environmental Authority, Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka, Disaster Management Centre, Vidulijanana Lanka (Pvt) Ltd and the National System Operator (Pvt) Ltd, among others.

Extensive deliberations were held on the possible effects of El Niño on Sri Lanka’s food security, drinking water supply and energy sector, along with the immediate steps required to manage potential risks across these critical areas.

Particular attention was given to current reservoir water levels and the measures needed to address possible pressure on agriculture, water distribution and electricity generation. Officials also briefed the President on existing preparedness plans aimed at mitigating adverse impacts.

According to PMD, the expected El Niño conditions could be similar to those experienced during 2016–2017. They noted that water management strategies have already been developed in line with that scenario and that preparations are underway to commence the 2026 Yala cultivation season about one and a half months earlier than usual.

The meeting also focused on ensuring an uninterrupted electricity supply in the coming months, maintaining agricultural activity and safeguarding national food security. The President instructed officials to submit detailed action plans covering power generation, irrigation requirements for the upcoming cultivation season and protection of drinking water resources.

President Dissanayake said that Sri Lanka, having successfully managed challenges such as Cyclone Ditwah and the regional impact of the Middle East conflict, has the capacity to effectively respond to the anticipated climate-related challenge as well. He expressed confidence that with proper planning and timely implementation, the country would be well prepared for any eventuality.