Water levels in Castlereagh, Maussakelle reservoirs drop sharply amid dry weather

By Sudath H.M Hewa

Colombo, March 25 (Daily Mirror) - The water levels of the Castlereagh and Maussakelle reservoirs are rapidly declining due to the dry weather conditions prevailing in the central hills, an official in charge of the reservoirs said.

Commenting on the situation, the officer stated that the severe dry conditions on the western slopes of the central highlands have significantly reduced the inflow of water to both reservoirs.

As of this morning, the water level of the Castlereagh reservoir had dropped by 39 feet and 5 inches from the overflow level, while the Maussakelle reservoir had fallen by 17 feet and 10 inches from its overflow level.

The official further said that the ongoing dry weather, along with forest fires set in surrounding areas, has destroyed a number of water sources that feed the reservoirs, resulting in a sharp decline in the volume of water flowing into them.

He added that despite the low water levels, efforts are being made to release water from the reservoirs to the relevant hydroelectric power plants to maintain electricity generation.