Water supply restrictions may be imposed in the coming weeks due to declining reservoir levels and reduced rainfall, the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) warned.
Addressing the media, NWSDB chairman Chandana Bandara said discussions with the Department of Meteorology indicate that rainfall is expected to remain low over the next two to three weeks, with the possibility of little or no rain during this period.
At the same time, water demand is expected to increase with the upcoming festive season and prevailing hot weather conditions, placing additional pressure on already limited water resources.
He noted that several water sources, including reservoirs and river-based supply systems, are currently experiencing declining water levels. If rainfall does not improve within the next few weeks, the situation could worsen further.
Chandana Bandara further said the Kalatuwawa Reservoir currently has sufficient water for about 20 days at the existing production capacity, adding that, however, authorities plan to reduce supply levels to extend available water for 30 to 40 days as part of precautionary management measures.
He also stressed that water supply must be maintained for essential services such as hospitals, schools, universities, government institutions and industrial operations, which further limits flexibility in water distribution.
Chandana Bandara said the Water Board is preparing for the worst-case scenario while hoping for rainfall in the coming weeks, noting that supply plans could be adjusted if weather conditions improve.
He also urged the public to use water sparingly, warning that supply interruptions and low-pressure conditions may occur in the coming weeks if dry weather persists. (Newswire)