The sluice gates and mud sluice of the Kotmale Gamini Dissanayake Reservoir were opened this morning, releasing excess water into the Kotmale Oya at a rate of about 130 cubic meters per second, according to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority.

Officials warned that the release poses a risk of flooding in low‑lying areas downstream of the Kotmale reservoir, including Nugawela, Riverside, and Mawathura, as well as along the Mahaweli River from Ulapane through Gampola, Waligalla, Gelioya, Peradeniya, Katugastota, and Polgolla.

The Authority has urged residents in these regions to remain highly vigilant and take necessary steps to safeguard lives and property.

It further noted that the rate of water release may vary depending on inflows into the reservoir, underscoring the need for continued caution. (Newswire)

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The Mahaweli Authority has announced that the spillway and sluice gates of the Kotmale Gamini Dissanayake Reservoir are being opened in sequence from 3:00 pm today to safeguard the reservoir and manage potential major flood conditions downstream.

It is reported that the move follows heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas, with about 250 cubic feet of water per second expected to be released into the Kotmale Oya.

The Authority warned of flood risks in low‑lying areas downstream of the Kotmale Oya, including Nugawela, Riverside, and Mawathura, as well as along the Mahaweli River from Ulapane through Gampola, Waligalla, Gelioya, Peradeniya, Katugastota, and Polgolla.

Residents in these regions have been urged to remain highly vigilant and take necessary precautions as water levels rise. (Newswire)

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