The Department of Irrigation has extended the flood warning for the Attanagalu Oya basin by a further 48 hours, maintaining heightened alert levels for communities along the river as adverse weather conditions persist across the Western Province. The original warning, issued at 5.30 a.m. on Thursday (22 May), remains in effect as water levels continue to pose a risk to low-lying areas.

According to officials at the Department of Irrigation, sustained rainfall in the upper catchment areas has kept the Attanagalu Oya river system at elevated levels, necessitating the extension of precautionary measures for downstream communities. The basin, which drains through Gampaha District before flowing into the Negombo lagoon, serves several densely populated areas including parts of Ja-Ela, Ekala, and Wattala.

Residents in Low-Lying Areas Urged to Stay Alert

The Department of Irrigation has called on residents in flood-prone zones along the Attanagalu Oya to remain vigilant and prepare for possible evacuations if water levels rise further. Families living close to the riverbanks have been advised to move valuables to higher ground and monitor official communications from disaster management authorities.

"We are closely monitoring water levels at key gauging stations along the river," a senior official from the Department of Irrigation told reporters on Friday. "While the immediate threat has stabilised, weather forecasts indicate continued rainfall, which is why we've extended the warning period."

The Department of Meteorology has forecast intermittent showers for the Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces over the weekend, with the possibility of thunderstorms during the afternoon and evening hours. These conditions are expected to maintain pressure on the Attanagalu Oya river system, delaying the return to normal water levels.

Impact on Daily Life and Local Infrastructure

The extended flood warning has disrupted daily routines for thousands of families living within the basin. Several access roads in the Ja-Ela and Wattala areas have been partially submerged, forcing motorists to seek alternative routes. Local schools in affected zones remained open on Friday but attendance was noticeably lower as parents kept children at home as a precaution.

Small businesses located near the riverbanks have reported losses due to water ingress, with some shop owners sandbagging entrances in anticipation of further flooding. Agricultural lands in the lower reaches of the basin have also been inundated, raising concerns about crop damage among paddy farmers who are in the middle of the cultivation season.

Coordination Between Government Agencies

The Disaster Management Centre (DMC), in coordination with the Department of Irrigation and local divisional secretariats, has established emergency response teams in vulnerable areas. Relief supplies, including dry rations and bottled water, have been pre-positioned at community centres for rapid deployment if evacuations become necessary.

"Our priority is public safety," said a DMC spokesperson. "We have activated our early warning systems and are working closely with local authorities to ensure communities receive timely information."

Emergency hotlines have been publicised through local radio stations and community notice boards, allowing residents to report flooding incidents or request assistance. The police and military have placed personnel on standby to support evacuation efforts if conditions deteriorate.

Historical Context and Recurring Flood Risk

The Attanagalu Oya basin has a history of seasonal flooding, particularly during the southwest monsoon period from May to September. Rapid urbanisation and encroachment into floodplains over recent decades have exacerbated the impact of heavy rainfall, reducing the river's natural capacity to absorb excess water.

Environmental advocates have long called for stricter enforcement of building regulations along riverbanks and investment in sustainable drainage infrastructure. The Department of Irrigation has undertaken several river management projects in recent years, including dredging and bund strengthening, but challenges remain in balancing development pressures with flood mitigation needs.

As the extended warning period progresses, authorities continue to emphasise the importance of community preparedness and adherence to safety advisories. Residents are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel through flood-prone areas and to stay informed through official channels.

Source: Ada Derana