Severe Drought Forces Sri Lanka to Ration Water for 72,000

Nearly 72,000 people in seven districts of Sri Lanka now rely on government-supplied water because of a severe drought. Authorities say this year's El Niño is worsening the situation and could bring the worst impact in decades.

Water levels in hundreds of smaller reservoirs have dropped to about one-tenth of their normal levels. The shortage is also hurting agriculture, with coconut and vegetable farmers struggling. The government has allocated 4.8bn Sri Lankan rupees ($14m) for water supply.

Trucks are transporting water to affected areas from parts of the country untouched by the drought. Each family receives about 75 liters every two to three days for drinking and hygiene.

The government has emergency measures in place until the third week of September, after which it expects monsoon rains to bring more substantial rainfall. However, the drought may return early next year.

Water is also being supplied to nature reserves, including Yala National Park, where it is pumped using solar power.

(Reuters, bak)