The Irrigation Department says 16 spill gates of the Rajanganaya Reservoir are to be opened to release more than 15,000 cubic feet of water per second into the Kala Oya.

The measure is to be taken to control the volume of water flowing into the reservoir as of 12 noon today (26).

The department stated that the number of spill gates opened may change depending on rainfall in the reservoir’s catchment areas and the volume of water flowing into the reservoir.

Accordingly, residents living in the low-lying areas of the Rajanganaya Reservoir and in areas surrounding the Kala Oya basin have been advised to remain vigilant about changes in water levels and follow notices issued by the Irrigation Department and disaster management authorities.

Meanwhile, four spill gates of the Tabbowa Reservoir, located in the Mee Oya basin, have also been opened by one foot each.

The measure has been taken to regulate the volume of water flowing into the reservoir as of 12 noon today, with 880 cubic feet of water per second being released into the Mee Oya, the Irrigation Department said.

Residents living in the low-lying areas of the Tabbowa Reservoir and along both banks of the Mee Oya have also been urged to remain alert to changes in water levels and follow instructions issued by the relevant authorities.