No New Water Cuts Planned as Water Supply Restored - NWSDB

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) says that no decision has been made to implement new water cuts at this time.

NWSDB Chairman Chandana Bandara stated that despite the prevailing dry weather conditions, current water resources are being managed effectively.

Following a 10-day disruption from the 6th to the 15th of April affecting several areas in Kandy and Kundasale, water distribution has finally resumed. 

The disruption was caused by operational issues with raw water pumps at the Balagolla Water Treatment Plant.

Aftermath from cyclone Ditwah led to heavy silt and mud accumulation near the intake points, in the treratment plant which has repeatedly obstructed pump operations and the filtration process.

Meanwhile, The recent severe extreme heat conditions have caused water levels in the Victoria Reservoir to drop significantly.

The National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) constructed a temporary dam to manage the low water levels and has now successfully restored the purification system to cover most affected areas.

Water is still being supplied via bowsers/tankers in areas necessary.

Plans are underway to divert water directly to the treatment plant via pipelines using the Haragama pool within the Victoria Reservoir. 

This is expected to be completed within the next 2–3 days.