Lanka could be heading for water crisis with high temperatures coupled with dry weather

By Rathindra Kuruwita

Water consumption has increased significantly due to the dry weather coupled with unusually high temperatures since last month, compelling the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) to urge people to use sparingly, Water Supply Professionals Trade Union Alliance (WSPTUA), coordinator Neil Leelarathna says.

Leelaratne said that people consumed more water due to the high temperature and humidity.

“This is what health officials have asked them to do. We have seen a significant increase in water use,” he said.

The Met Department has warned there will not be significant rainfall until May, and thus the NWSDB says it has manage its water till then.

“There have already been requests from local and provincial authorities to construct tube wells to tap into ground water. Some areas like Kalutara are already facing water shortages,” Leeratne said, adding that Sri Lanka was struggling to manage water, given the increasing demand for water for electricity generation, agriculture and drinking.

“We need to look at alternatives like rain water harvesting, etc., he said.