The Housing Minister claims current reservoir levels can sustain uninterrupted water supply across the Western Province for three months even if no rainfall occurs, citing preparations for potential El Niño conditions.

Sri Lanka's Housing, Construction and Water Supply Minister Dr. Susil Ranasinghe has expressed confidence that the country can maintain continuous water supply for three months without rainfall, based on current reservoir capacity levels. The Minister made the statement during a site visit to Labugama Reservoir, emphasizing that contingency measures have been put in place to handle anticipated El Niño weather patterns.

According to Dr. Ranasinghe, the primary concern remains sustaining uninterrupted supply during the typically dry months of August and September. The National Water Supply and Drainage Board has assessed water levels at the Labugama and Kalatu wawa reservoirs as adequate to support this demand without rainfall during the stated period.

The Western Province's water supply depends on three main sources: the Kelani River, the Kalu River, and the two reservoirs mentioned. Dr. Ranasinghe indicated that based on current water storage capacities, the following two months should not present significant supply challenges. The Minister's statement reflects efforts to manage water resources strategically during the dry season and potential climate disruptions.