Water supply to be managed until April 20 as river levels drop

By Mangala Pavithrani 

Colombo, April 2 (Daily Mirror) - The National Water Supply and Drainage Board warned that water supply across the island will be managed until April 20 due to the rapidly declining river levels caused by prevailing dry weather conditions.

Addressing a special media briefing today, Chairman of the National Water Supply and Drainage Board, Engineer Chandana Bandara said that water sources are drying up owing to reduced rainfall, while daily water consumption has increased by 10% to 15% due to high temperatures.

He said that the situation has been further aggravated by the risk of seawater intrusion into inland areas as river water levels continue to drop, making it necessary to implement controlled water distribution.

A special committee comprising relevant officials has been appointed to monitor and manage the drinking water shortage.

"This special committee, consisting of relevant subject officers, has been appointed to monitor and control water production and distribution, taking into account the need to effectively manage the rapidly drying water sources and the limited production capacity due to the dry weather," he explained.

Bandara added that efforts are being made to maintain water quality at treatment plants such as Ambatale and Biyagama.

 However, he warned that if salinity levels rise, treatment processes may have to be restricted, potentially disrupting supply.

Deputy General Manager (Production) Lalith Wijesinghe said that, despite the challenges, steps will be taken to provide safe drinking water. Water pressure in certain areas may decrease due to reduced source levels  he added.

Meanwhile, Deputy Director in charge of the Western-Southern Region, Dammika Perera said that delays in water supply have been reported in elevated areas of Kalutara and Colombo South. He added that bowser services have already been deployed to supply water to affected areas.

Deputy General Manager of the Western-North Zone, Kumudu Wijegunawardena said that intermittent water cuts may be necessary in areas including Gampaha to maintain system pressure.

Deputy General Manager of the Western-Central Zone, Disna Pannila, urged consumers to check float valves in household tanks to prevent overflows and to promptly report any leakages.

The National Water Supply and Drainage Board further warned that if conditions worsen, a scheduled water distribution system may be introduced. 

The public has been requested to use water sparingly and avoid non-essential activities such as washing vehicles and watering gardens.