Speaking at a media briefing held today at the Tri-Forces Defence Headquarters, Gunasekara said that spill gates of all major reservoirs were opened in response to the heavy rainfall, which resulted in temporary flooding in surrounding low-lying areas.
“Due to the current adverse weather, the Minneriya, Kaudulla, and Deduru Oya reservoirs are still overflowing. However, flood levels in these areas are expected to decrease from tomorrow afternoon,” he stated.
Gunasekara noted that the risk of severe flooding in Colombo from rising Kelani River water levels has now lessened to some extent, although existing flood conditions are likely to persist for the next 24 hours.
He added that both Attanagalu Oya and Malwathu Oya continue to overflow, while water levels in the Mahaweli, Mahaoya, and Kalu rivers are expected to gradually recede beginning tomorrow.
Commenting on infrastructure concerns, the Director General confirmed that urgent repair work has commenced on the damaged section near the Elahera main inlet, which belongs to the Elahera Irrigation Department.
