Sri Lanka Reservoirs Suffer Steep Water Level Drops Amid Prolonged Dry Spell

Sri Lanka is experiencing a significant reduction in reservoir water levels due to the prevailing dry weather conditions. Major reservoirs managed by the Irrigation Department have reportedly dropped to approximately 34.4% of their capacity. Several districts, including Ampara, Batticaloa, and Trincomalee, are seeing reservoir capacities fall to around 20%, with numerous smaller reservoirs also critically low. This situation has led to the launch of projects, such as constructing 60 tube wells in Monaragala, to address drinking water shortages, with over 75,000 people receiving water assistance across seven districts. While the Yala cultivation season is nearing its end, available water reserves are expected to suffice for its final stages.