More than 7,000 people across multiple districts are facing severe drinking water shortages due to the ongoing dry weather conditions affecting the island.
According to the Disaster Management Center (DMC), a total of 7,258 individuals from 2,295 families in the Kalutara and Ratnapura districts have been impacted. The most affected areas include the Matugama Divisional Secretariat Division in Kalutara and the Weligepola, Eheliyagoda, and Kalawana Divisional Secretariat Divisions in Ratnapura.
Meanwhile, forest fires have also been reported due to the dry conditions. DMC Director General Major General (Retd) Udaya Herath stated that 49 forest fires have occurred across 12 districts, causing severe damage to plant and animal life.
“These fires are man-made, and those responsible must be held accountable. I urge the public to report any information regarding individuals involved in such activities,” Herath emphasized.
