The Irrigation Department has urged the public to use water sparingly as several parts of the country continue to experience hot and dry weather conditions.

Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo on Friday (31), Director of Hydrology and Disaster Management L.S. Sooriyabandara said significant water shortages have already been reported in several districts.

He noted that only around 40% of the total capacity of the country’s 73 major reservoirs currently remains available.

“Many parts of the country are experiencing dry weather conditions. Of the total capacity of our 73 major reservoirs, only about 40% remains at present. Several districts are facing considerable water shortages,” he said.

Sooriyabandara warned that higher temperatures associated with the expected El Niño conditions and the approaching month of August could increase evaporation from reservoirs, resulting in further water losses.

“Until rainfall returns, the water available in reservoirs and other sources must be used carefully. We request the public to avoid wasting water and use it sparingly,” he said.

Meanwhile, Director of the Water Management Secretariat Engineer Nilantha Dhanapala said plans have already been prepared to manage the expected El Niño conditions.

He stressed that El Niño does not mean a complete absence of rainfall, but rather changes in rainfall patterns.

“El Niño does not mean there will be no rain. It mainly results in changes to rainfall patterns. However, temperatures are expected to increase, leading to higher evaporation rates. That is why water management becomes important,” Dhanapala said.

He also urged farmers to commence cultivation for the upcoming Maha season between 1 and 15 October, in line with the Government’s planned schedule.

According to Dhanapala, simultaneous cultivation across irrigation systems and agricultural zones would help conserve significant amounts of water and improve water management during the dry period.

He further called on the public to minimise wastage of both electricity and drinking water to help mitigate the effects of the anticipated weather conditions. (Newswire)

The post Irrigation Department urges public to conserve water amid dry weather appeared first on Newswire.