The National Water Supply and Drainage Board has assured the public that water distribution continues normally in most regions, with only limited restrictions implemented in Monaragala and Batticaloa districts due to dry weather conditions.
Sri Lanka's water supply situation remains largely stable despite ongoing drought conditions and El Niño effects affecting parts of the country. According to Chandana Bandara, Chairman of the National Water Supply and Drainage Board, the impact of current dry weather has been contained to specific areas, with no complete suspension of services in any district.
The most affected regions are experiencing managed restrictions rather than complete cutoffs. In Monaragala District, the Bibile and Medagama areas have been placed under controlled water distribution due to reduced availability at certain sources. Batticaloa District has implemented a precautionary measure involving approximately four-hour daily water interruptions to ensure sustainable management of available resources. The Western Province, which encompasses the capital Colombo and surrounding areas, remains unaffected, drawing water from multiple sources including the Kelani River, Kalu River, Attanagalu Oya, Ma Oya, and the Labugama and Kalatuwawa reservoirs.
National water storage levels present a mixed picture. Major reservoirs across the country currently maintain levels between 30 and 35 percent capacity, while reservoirs managed by the Mahaweli Authority hold between 50 and 55 percent. Water stored in the Labugama and Kalatuwawa reservoirs is expected to sustain the Western Province for approximately three additional months.
Authorities are taking preventive action against the possibility of prolonged dry conditions. The NWSDB has initiated measures to strengthen long-term water security, including rehabilitation and preparation of groundwater resources as alternative supplies for potential future use. All other water treatment plants and distribution networks across the island continue operating normally.