A discussion to assess the potential impact of the upcoming El Niño conditions and the preparedness plans of relevant institutions was held this morning (11) at the Presidential Secretariat under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
The meeting was attended by representatives from several key institutions, including the Department of Meteorology, Department of Irrigation, Central Environmental Authority, Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka, Disaster Management Centre, Power Generation Lanka (Private) Limited, and National System Operator (Private) Limited.
During the discussion, special attention was given to the possible effects of the forthcoming El Niño conditions on the country’s food security, drinking water supply, and energy sectors, as well as the urgent measures required to manage these sectors effectively.
The discussions also focused on the current water storage capacity of reservoirs and the steps that need to be taken to address potential challenges affecting agriculture, drinking water supply, and energy generation.
Officials noted that the anticipated El Niño conditions may be similar to those experienced during the 2016–2017 period and stated that water management plans have been formulated accordingly. They further highlighted that arrangements have been made to commence the 2026 Yala cultivation season approximately one and a half months earlier than usual.
Considering the possible challenges ahead, special attention was paid to ensuring an uninterrupted electricity supply, maintaining agricultural activities, and safeguarding food security in the coming months. President Dissanayake instructed relevant officials to prepare and submit the necessary plans for electricity generation, the provision of water for agricultural activities including the upcoming Yala season, and measures to ensure drinking water security.
The President emphasized that this global phenomenon, which presents an external challenge, can be managed in the same manner as the country successfully addressed challenges arising from Cyclone Ditva and the military situation in the Middle East. He expressed confidence that with proper planning and coordinated action, Sri Lanka would be able to effectively face any situation that may arise.
Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Senior Additional Secretary to the President Kapila Janaka Bandara, Director General of the Department of Meteorology A.L.K. Wijemannage, Director General of the Department of Irrigation Kithsiri Weligopolage, Director General of the Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka H.M.K.K. Herath, Chairman of the Central Environmental Authority Professor Thilak Hewawasam, Acting Director General of the Disaster Management Centre Brigadier D.D.G.A. Jayawardena, and several senior officials representing relevant institutions also participated in the discussion.
