Water levels in nine major irrigation reservoirs in the Ampara District have plunged to just 21.5%, amid the severe dry weather prevailing across the country, the Irrigation Department said today (6).

The sharp decline has raised concerns over water availability for agriculture and other essential needs in the district.

Meanwhile, water levels in four major irrigation reservoirs in the Batticaloa District have also fallen to 25.3%, reflecting the worsening impact of the prolonged dry spell in the Eastern Province.

The ongoing dry weather continues to affect several districts, with water resources and agriculture facing severe pressure.
Although several areas of Polonnaruwa and Monaragala received rainfall today, providing some temporary relief, the Department of Meteorology said the prevailing hot and dry conditions are expected to continue throughout the coming week.

Monaragala is among the districts worst affected by the dry spell, with a large number of small irrigation tanks already completely dried up.

Authorities have also taken measures to address drinking water shortages. The Siyambalanduwa Pradeshiya Sabha, together with the National Water Supply and Drainage Board, has commenced repairs to tube wells in 48 Grama Niladhari divisions within the Siyambalanduwa Divisional Secretariat Division.