The Irrigation Department is set to begin an assessment inspection of 266 tank aqueducts next month in the aftermath of recent floods caused by heavy rainfall.
Director of Water Management H.M.P.S.D. Herath said the inspections will cover major river basins, medium-sized rivers, and storage tanks managed by the department to identify flood- and landslide-related damage.
He noted that technical support from the National Building Research Organization (NBRO) and the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau will be obtained where required to carry out detailed evaluations.
According to the Irrigation Department, several small reservoirs have accumulated sand due to floodwaters. Mr. Herath said sand removal will be carried out only after proper condition assessments, adding that such conditions have not been observed in major reservoirs.
Meanwhile, the department has already identified damage to 218 river reservoirs and tank embankments, and restoration work is currently underway. The government has allocated more than Rs. 23 billion for the repair of damaged river systems and tank embankments.
Mr. Herath added that steps are being taken to ensure the timely release of water for the upcoming Maha cultivation season.
