• Possible loss of a hydro electricity generation site

Engineers at the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) are awaiting board approval to address critical leaks at the right banks of the Samanalawewa reservoir, following recent heavy rains.

The urgency of the situation has prompted concerns that further delays could lead to the abandonment of the reservoir in the future.

The recent downpours have significantly increased the water level within the reservoir, obscuring the extent of the leaks, making immediate action imperative.

Sources close to the matter told The Sunday Morning that the decision now rested with the General Manager of the CEB.

“The decision is in the hands of the General Manager of the CEB and if we don’t take this decision right now, the reservoir might have to be abandoned one day,” cautioned the sources.

Estimates suggest that the repair work is expected to cost less than Rs. 40 million, which, according to the sources, is a relatively small investment considering the potential consequences of inaction.

The sudden onset of heavy rains has exacerbated the situation, causing sinkholes and revealing multiple leaks.

The University of Peradeniya identified these leaks, compelling the CEB to plan immediate repair measures. However, the unexpected rainfall has raised water levels, posing a challenge to the repair efforts.

“We are now contemplating whether to restart the units and lower the water levels. This may only require two or three days, but if the rain continues, we won’t be able to reduce the water levels. These repairs need to be completed before the next rainy season arrives. Reservoir storage must be preserved for the upcoming dry season,” explained the sources.

Highlighting the urgency, the sources noted that these leaks had persisted since 1992 and could potentially erode the right bank of the reservoir, leading to further soil loss.

It has been reported that approximately 78 million cubic metres of water leaks from the Samanalawewa hydropower reservoir annually, causing a staggering loss of Rs. 2.7 billion.

Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera has also acknowledged the severity of the issue, confirming the identification of seven water leakage points within the Samanalawewa reservoir.

When contacted, CEB Chairman Nalinda Ilangakoon assured that necessary steps were being taken by the CEB to address this critical issue.