The government has begun implementing measures to strengthen water management in preparation for possible El Niño conditions expected in the coming months, Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply Susil Ranasinghe said.
The Minister stated that a coordinated mechanism involving all institutions responsible for water management has been established to ensure effective preparedness and response.
Speaking on the matter, Minister Ranasinghe noted that although Sri Lanka typically experiences dry weather during July and August, this year’s dry season is expected to be more severe than usual.
He added that while the northeast monsoon is expected to commence around mid-September, rainfall during September is likely to remain below normal. However, rainfall is forecast to increase during October, November and December.
The Minister said the government has already held discussions with the Department of Agriculture, Department of Irrigation, Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka, National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB), and electricity sector officials to formulate the most effective water management strategy.
He further stated that all relevant institutions have been instructed to prepare their response plans, which will be reviewed at a follow-up meeting scheduled for July 20.
