With heavy rains continuing in the catchment areas of the Alikotaara Reservoir, the water level has risen rapidly, prompting authorities to release excess water.
Wellawaya Irrigation Engineer Chandima Senaratne said that three spill gates of the reservoir have been opened by one foot each to regulate the increasing water level.
He said the Alikotaara Reservoir has a total capacity of 4,800 acre feet, and the decision to open the spill gates was taken after the water level reached the overflow level of 3,652 acre feet. The released water is being discharged into the Kirindi Oya.
Irrigation officials have advised downstream communities to remain vigilant as water levels in the river may rise following the release.
