The National Water Supply and Drainage Board announced that water supply has been restored to normal after an emergency suspension caused by concerns over water quality at the Kelani River intake point.
The suspension, which affected several areas in Colombo and Gampaha districts, was triggered by a chemical substance released into the environment by a private factory.
Speaking to the media, Water Board Chairman Chandana Bandara said the supply was halted as a precaution until tests confirmed whether pollutants had entered the water.
The incident occurred at 11.30 pm yesterday (24), prompting the temporary shutdown of the Ambatale and Biyagama water treatment plants to safeguard public health.
Chemists from the Board immediately began investigations, while water samples from multiple points along the Kelani River were tested throughout the night.
By 4.30 am today, after confirming the river’s water quality was safe, production and distribution resumed at both treatment plants.
The Disaster Management Center and security forces are conducting a wider investigation, while the Board has lodged a complaint with police, he said.
Relevant institutions have been notified to pursue legal action against those responsible.
Bandara stressed that all conditions have now returned to normal, assuring residents that water supply is safe. (Newswire)