The National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) says essential maintenance work on the main water transmission pipeline from Labugama–Kalatuwawa to Maharagama has been completed.

The Water Board said work to restore the water supply is currently underway. However, it noted that it will take some time for the main pipeline to refill, establish the required water pressure and return the distribution system to normal operations.

As a result, some areas may continue to experience either low water pressure or a temporary disruption to water supply.

The NWSDB said water supply is being restored gradually across affected areas, with staff working continuously to resume normal supply to all consumers as quickly as possible.

The Water Board expressed regret for the inconvenience caused and thanked the public for their patience, understanding and continued support. (Newswire)

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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)

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The National Water Supply and Drainage Board has appointed a special operations committee to monitor and manage the shortage of drinking water, as reservoirs continue to deplete under prevailing dry weather conditions. 

The committee has been appointed by the Chairman and the General Manager of the National Water Supply and Drainage Board, comprising relevant subject officers. 

According to the Water Board, the purpose of this committee is to monitor and control water production and distribution.

This committee will continuously monitor issues related to water sources, water production capacities, and supply patterns. It will also review the situation daily and weekly within identified time frames.

Accordingly, it is expected to submit management reports on the prevailing conditions and ensure effective coordination among relevant sectors to secure an adequate water supply.

Through these measures, steps will be taken to prevent prolonged daily water supply interruptions in the future, and to manage, control, and distribute water in a way that enables all consumers to meet their daily needs. This committee will remain operational until depleted water sources return to normal levels, the Water Board said in a statement. 

Furthermore, in order to prevent severe inconvenience to consumers due to the limited water production capacity caused by the ongoing dry weather, and to maintain services at least at a minimum optimal level, the cooperation of consumers is essential at this time. We kindly request that water be used only for essential purposes, and such support will be greatly appreciated, it added. (Newswire)

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The National Water Supply and Drainage Board has announced that bowser trucks have been deployed to deliver water to the public in areas affected by low‑supply channels due to the prevailing dry weather conditions.

The Water Board has urged residents to promptly report any such supply issues to the hotline ‘1939’ so that immediate action can be taken.

Stressing that, amid the ongoing dry weather, ensuring access to clean water is its foremost responsibility, the Water Board stated: ‘Delivering life‑essential water to you – through uninterrupted service.’ (Newswire)

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A retired General Manager of the National Water Supply and Drainage Board was taken into custody by officers of the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption on Thursday (12 Feb). 

According to the Bribery Commission, the arrest was made over charges of corruption and conspiracy, linked to the rental of a Toyota Prado jeep (101/014/18040) under the contract funds of the Kandy North Pathadumbara Integrated Water Supply Project. 

Despite two government vehicles already being assigned for the Chairman’s use, Rs.12,750,000 was paid in rental fees without confirming the vehicle’s purpose, causing a loss to the government. 

Allegations also state that procurement procedures were ignored to award the contract to P.N. Auto Holdings, with payments made without proper acceptance of the vehicle, giving the supplier undue advantage. 

The retired General Manager of the National Water Supply and Drainage Board, who was arrested in connection with the incident, has been remanded until 20 February 2026. (Newswire)

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UN-Habitat, together with the National Water Supply & Drainage Board (NWSDB), has officially launched a new project in Sri Lanka entitled: Safe and Resilient Water Supply for Western Cities – Integrating Climate Resilience into Water Safety Plans of the Ambatale Water Supply Scheme. 

This project is funded through a US$469,232 (LKR 142 million) grant from the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)’s trust fund, IRAF, with financial support from the Government of India. The project was officially launched at “Temple Trees” – the office of the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka – during the national World Habitat Day celebrations organized by the Ministry of Urban Development, Construction and Housing.

According to UN-Habitat Sri Lanka, the project document was officially handed over to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake by Director-Advocacy and Communications, CDRI David White, and UN-Habitat Country Programme Manager for Sri Lanka Harshini Halangode. 

Minister of Urban Development, Construction and Housing Anura Karunathilaka, Deputy Minister for Housing T.B. Sarath, Secretary to the Ministry of Urban Development, Construction and Housing Ranjith Ariyaratne, and First Secretary (Pol.) of the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka Navya Singla, were also present at the ceremony. 

This project aims to improve the catchment management capacities of Urban Local Authorities in Colombo, Kotte and Kelaniya and the early warning capacities of the NWSDB to increase the resilience of operations and maintenance of the Ambatale Water Supply Scheme, protecting it from climate change-induced floods and droughts. This project will support NWSDB to align with Edition II of the World Health Organization’s Water Safety Plan (WSP) Manual, enabling upscaling at the national level. The project will be jointly implemented by UN-Habitat and NWSDB from 2025 to 2027.

Discussing the importance of the project to the country’s water supply system, Minister of Urban Development, Construction and Housing stated: “We are pleased to launch this nationally important, collaborative water sector project with UN-Habitat and the National Water Supply & Drainage Board on World Habitat Day. It will pave the way towards establishing a best-practice model for integrating disaster and climate resilience into critical water infrastructure in Sri Lanka”.

David White, Director – Advocacy & Communications at CDRI, stated, “We are pleased to support UN-Habitat and the National Water Supply & Drainage Board in driving Sri Lanka’s vital journey toward climate resilience. This project exemplifies the collaborative spirit and forward-thinking innovation that CDRI is committed to championing on a global scale for urban resilience.”

UN-Habitat’s Country Programme Manager, Harshini Halangode, noted, “This project will protect over 2 million people in Greater Colombo who depend on the Ambatale Water Supply Scheme. Rising pollution, floods, and droughts threaten daily water supply, making this initiative essential for safe, reliable, and climate-resilient water for the city and surrounding areas.”

The “Safe and Resilient Water Supply for Western Cities – Integrating Climate Resilience into Water Safety Plans of the Ambatale Water Supply Scheme” project extends its gratitude to the Government of India for its financial support through the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure’s trust fund, IRAF. Sri Lanka, along with Bhutan, Brazil, India, and Honduras, is receiving a total of US $2.47 million under the first Call for Proposals of CDRI’s Urban Infrastructure Resilience Programme. (Newswire)

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The National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) has requested the public to use drinking water sparingly due to the ongoing dry weather conditions across the country.

According to the NWSDB, water levels in key sources are rapidly depleting while public consumption has surged due to increased temperatures. As a result, water supply may be limited and must be prioritized for essential drinking and sanitation purposes.

The Water Board urges the public to minimize water usage for non-essential activities such as washing vehicles and gardening. In highland areas, reduced water pressure may occur due to these constraints.

While expressing regret over the inconvenience caused, the NWSDB stressed the importance of public cooperation to ensure an adequate water supply during this period.

For further inquiries, the public can contact the NWSDB hotline: 1939. (Newswire)

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The National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) has been recognised as an ‘Outstanding Climate Smart Utility’ in the Achiever category by the International Water Association (IWA). 

According to a statement from the Ministry of Water Supply, this prestigious accolade highlights the NWSDB’s commitment to advancing climate-conscious reforms and its leadership in the water sector.

Over the past year, the NWSDB has undertaken major climate-focused initiatives under the vision and leadership of Minister Jeevan Thondaman. These reforms have made the NWSDB the first water utility in the region to adopt a comprehensive Climate Change Resilience Roadmap and Framework. 

This framework outlines a strategic plan of action to mitigate the impact of climate change and reduce carbon emissions by integrating climate-friendly technologies and promoting sustainable water conservation practices.

The new framework also provides guidelines for adapting existing water and drainage infrastructure to address the challenges posed by climate change. It also mandates climate resilience considerations in the design and implementation of all future infrastructure projects, ensuring that Sri Lanka’s water and sanitation systems are robust, adaptive, and sustainable in the face of evolving environmental conditions.

“This recognition from the International Water Association is a testament to the NWSDB’s dedication to leading by example in the fight against climate change. We are immensely proud of the progress made and are committed to continuing our efforts to build a more sustainable and resilient water sector in Sri Lanka. The NWSDB’s achievements underscore the importance of forward-thinking policies and the critical role that water utilities play in safeguarding our environment for future generations,” Minister of Water Supply Jeevan Thondaman said. 

Commending the leadership and staff of the NWSDB for their innovative approach and commitment to enhancing climate resilience within Sri Lanka’s water and sanitation infrastructure, the ministry said this award is a milestone in the NWSDB’s ongoing journey towards environmental stewardship and climate adaptation.

The Ministry of Water Supply further reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote sustainability, reduce environmental impact, and enhance the quality of life for all Sri Lankans. The recognition by the International Water Association is not only an achievement for the NWSDB but also positions Sri Lanka as a regional leader in climate-smart water management, it added. (Newswire)

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Consumers across Sri Lanka have failed to pay arrears amounting to nearly Rs. 14.5 billion to the National Water Supply and Drainage Board, it was reported.

According to Lankadeepa, a spokesman for the water board said that the consumers have already been informed to settle their outstanding payments.

The spokesman further said the water supply of many consumers who have defaulted on their water bill payments has been disconnected.

The Water Board spokesman added that it has been observed that consumers are avoiding paying their water bills on time due to economic difficulties. (NewsWire)

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The National Water Supply and Drainage Board will commence sending monthly bills via text message to consumers of certain parts of Sri Lanka from October 2023.

According to the Water Board, consumers will receive their monthly bills via a text message in the Colombo South, Kandy South, Polonnaruwa and Trincomalee areas.

Consumers of the said areas will receive their monthly bills via text message from October 1, 2023.

The Water Board further stated that this system will be adopted across the island from January 1, 2024. (NewsWire)

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The Ministry of Water Supply will take measures to address the impact of the ongoing drought in several districts, Minister of Water Supply Jeevan Thondaman stated.

Taking to ‘X’, the minister stated that the steps are being taken together with the National Water Supply and Drainage Board and the Department of National Community Water Supply.

“In order to address the impact of the ongoing drought in several districts, my Ministry together with the @NwsdbOfficial, and the Department of National Community Water Supply, will be visiting drought-affected districts in the coming weeks,” he said. 

Stating that the goal of the initiative is to gain firsthand insights, understand district-specific challenges, and work together to find swift solutions, Minister Thondaman added that an official schedule will be published soon.

“In this critical time, your input is invaluable. Please share with me in the comments section how the drought is affecting the water supply in your town or district. Your insights will aid our understanding and response strategy better,” he requested from the public. 

Minister Thondaman pointed out that while responding to this drought, each individual can play a vital role in conserving water. 

The minister has made a five-point suggestion to the public to help conserve water. The suggestions are as follows;

1. Fix Leaks : Check and repair any leaks in your home, as even small drips can add up over time. 
2. Shorter Showers: Aim for shorter showers to save water. Every minute counts.
3. Collect  Rainwater : Utilise rain barrels or containers to collect rainwater for non-drinking purposes like gardening. Avoid unnecessary watering. 
4. Turn Off Taps : While brushing teeth, washing hands or dishes, turn off the tap when not in use. 
5. Spread Awareness: Educate friends and family about water conservation and inspire them to take action too. 

“By collectively embracing these practices, we can alleviate the strain on our water resources and ensure a more consistent water supply during this challenging period. I thank everyone for their patience and support,” Minister Thondaman added. (NewsWire)

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The overall daily purified drinking water supply capacity has decreased by 09% in Sri Lanka at present, the National Water Supply and Drainage Board said.

The Water Board advised the public to use water sparingly and only for essential needs.

The request was made via a special notice issued by the water board today. (NewsWire)

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The National Water Supply and Drainage Board says it has the ability to provide uninterrupted water supply to the Colombo and Gampaha areas. 

The Deputy General Manager of the Water Board Ajith Perera stated that a sandbank has been constructed in Ambathale in order to resolve the issues pertaining to the water level of the Kelani River. 

Stating that even though there are issues surrounding the supply of drinking water to various parts of the country at present, he said, however, the water board is capable of providing the necessary water supply to the Colombo and Gampaha areas.

“We have built a sandbank in Ambathale to address the water level of the Kelani River. The water board has addressed the two key issues arising through this measure, which is the receding water level and mixing of salt water with drinking water,” he said. 

Ajith Perera warned that the current situation could worsen in the future due to the excess use of water by the public as a result of the prevalent hot weather. 

He further requested the public to use water sparingly and only for essential needs. 

Ajith Perera also urged the public to help protect water sources by minimizing river pollution as much as possible. (NewsWire)

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The National Water Supply and Drainage Board states that the water tariffs must be increased in order to bear additional costs as a result of the recent increase in electricity charges.

The Deputy General Manager of the Water Board N.K. Ranatunga said that water tariffs were increased after a period of 10 years in line with the previous electricity tariff revision.

Ranatunga said, however, water tariffs have not been revised in line with the recent electricity tariff increase in January 2023.

Pointing out that the Water Board had to bear additional costs while managing the new electricity rates, he warned, however, they will not be able to do so for long.

The Deputy General Manager of the Water Board revealed that the institution has incurred an additional cost of Rs 4 billion as a result of the electricity tariff increase. (NewsWire)

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