Sri Lanka Reservoirs Reach 63% Capacity Amid Yala Season
The 73 major reservoirs managed by Sri Lanka’s Irrigation Department have collectively reached 63% of their total storage capacity, ensuring sufficient water availability for the ongoing Yala cultivation season, officials confirmed.
Authorities stated that current reservoir levels remain generally strong across most districts, although prudent water usage has been strongly advised due to expected reductions in rainfall in the coming months.
District-wise Reservoir Storage Levels
According to the Irrigation Department, the highest storage levels were recorded in:
- Kandy – 93%
- Puttalam – 93%
- Kurunegala – 86%
- Anuradhapura – 81%
- Monaragala – 76%
- Mannar – 76%
- Badulla – 74%
- Galle – 72%
- Polonnaruwa – 71%
- Trincomalee – 68%
- Matale – 49%
- Ampara – 41%
These figures indicate generally stable water conditions across major agricultural regions, supporting cultivation activities during the current season.
Water Management Concerns
Despite the favourable reservoir levels, officials have cautioned that rainfall patterns are expected to decline in the coming months. As a result, farmers and water users have been urged to use water carefully and efficiently.
The Irrigation Department emphasized that effective water management will be essential to:
- Maintain adequate supply throughout the Yala season
- Prevent depletion of reservoir levels during dry spells
- Ensure long-term agricultural sustainability
With reservoirs currently holding 63% of total capacity, Sri Lanka enters the Yala cultivation season under relatively stable water conditions. However, authorities continue to stress the importance of responsible water usage to safeguard against potential future shortages.
