Arid weather could result in high salinity in rivers: NWSDB

COLOMBO (News 1st): There is a risk of sea water mixing with rivers that fulfill the drinking water requirements of the people, given the prevailing dry weather conditions experienced at present, the National Water Supply and Drainage Board said. More than 70,000 families in Kalutara, Beruwala, Maggona, Kethena and several others areas could be affected as a result of this, Thilina Wijetunga, the General Manager at the National Water Supply and Drainage Board told News 1st on Tuesday (Feb. 23). According to Thilina Wijetunga, water from Kelani, Kalu, Walawe and Nilwala rivers are used to fulfill the drinking water requirements in the country; adding the lack of rain could result in increased salinity in water sources as rivers dry out. Thereby, Wijetunga urged the general public to use water sparingly till March or April, so that equal distribution of water could be ensured for those living in highlands as well.