Water levels in the Castlereagh and Maussakelle reservoirs have dropped rapidly due to severe dry conditions in the Central Hills catchment areas, engineers stated.

As of 24 April morning, Maussakelle Reservoir was recorded at 50 feet 11 inches below spill level, while Castlereagh stood at 40 feet 10 inches below spill level.

Both reservoirs received light rainfall on 23 April, with Maussakelle recording 12 mm and Castlereagh 14 mm.

Engineers stated that falling water levels have exposed submerged land and archaeological sites in the reservoirs.

The reservoirs supply water to major hydroelectric power stations including Wimalasurendra, Laxapana, New Laxapana, Canyon, and Polpitiya.