Harvest affected as farmers face diesel shortage

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Irrigation Department says that harvesting activities during the Maha season could be hampered by rains, while farmers are grappling with the diesel shortage in the country.

Farmers allege that they have not been able to harvest their paddy due to the lack of diesel at filling stations.

Meanwhile, the Director of the Water Management Unit of the Irrigation Department, D. Abeysiriwardena said that the Meteorological Department had issued an advance notice for March 2, 3 and 4 regarding an increase in rainfall.

The Irrigation Department stated that at present, the total water capacity of reservoirs is at 68%.

The department stated that the next Yala season is scheduled to begin as soon as the harvest is completed.