Key facts
- Nearly 72,000 people in seven Sri Lankan districts are receiving water due to drought.
Sri Lanka's government is supplying water to nearly 72,000 people across seven districts affected by a severe drought linked to El Niño. The government has allocated $14 million for water distribution and is providing approximately 75 liters per family every two to three days.
The severe drought linked to El Niño is impacting a significant portion of Sri Lanka's population and agriculture, necessitating government intervention and resource allocation. The situation highlights the vulnerability of the region to extreme weather events and the challenges in managing water resources during prolonged dry spells.
Sri Lanka's government is providing water to nearly 72,000 individuals across seven districts as the nation grapples with a severe drought exacerbated by the El Niño weather pattern. Water levels in hundreds of small tanks have dropped to approximately 10%, impacting drinking water availability and stressing crops like coconuts and vegetables.
The government has allocated Rs.4.8 billion ($14 million) from its budget to fund water distribution efforts. Minister of Environment Dammika Patabendi indicated that El Niño's peak may occur sooner than previously expected, with current response measures planned until the third week of September. Following this period, the year-end monsoons are anticipated to bring substantial rainfall, though the risk of drought returning at the start of next year remains.
Water is being transported via trucks from unaffected regions to drought-stricken areas. Each family is receiving about 75 liters (20 U.S. gallons) of water every two to three days for drinking and sanitation. Additionally, wildlife parks, including the prominent Yala National Park, are being supplied with water, with solar power utilized to pump it to the park.