The Mahaweli Authority has initiated a gradual opening of spillway gates at Kotmale Gamini Dissanayake Reservoir to manage elevated water levels caused by heavy precipitation in upstream catchment areas.
The Mahaweli Authority announced a controlled water release from the Kotmale Gamini Dissanayake Reservoir beginning at 3.00 p.m. today, following persistent heavy rainfall in the reservoir's upper catchment regions. The decision to gradually open the spillway gates and silt sluice is intended to preserve the structural integrity of the reservoir while reducing the likelihood of severe flooding downstream.
Approximately 250 cubic feet of water per second is expected to flow into the Kotmale Oya as a result of the gate opening. The Mahaweli Authority cautioned that communities in several low-lying areas downstream could experience rising water levels as the release proceeds.
Residents across multiple zones have been advised to remain vigilant and implement precautionary measures. The affected regions include Nugawela, Riverside, and Mawatara in proximity to the dam, as well as communities further downstream along the Mahaweli River corridor, spanning from Ulapane through Gampola, Weligalla, Gelioya, Peradeniya, Katugastota, and extending to Polgolla.
