Vavuniya, Sri Lanka – Heavy rainfall in the Vavuniya district has led to severe flooding, with around 125 tanks overflowing and three tanks bursting, according to the Irrigation Department. The downpours have affected nearly 600 tanks of varying sizes in the region, and the situation is escalating as more tanks continue to overflow.
Among the tanks that have burst are the Ramayankulam tank in Settikulam, the Nagarayankulam tank in Aravithottam, and the Omantha Madattuvilankulam tank. The burst tanks have caused significant damage to the embankments, and emergency repair efforts are currently underway with the help of the Sri Lankan Army and local residents.
In response to the crisis, the Vavuniya Disaster Management Officer’s Office has issued a warning to the public. While small tanks are traditionally prone to overflow, the situation is now affecting larger tanks as well, and there is a heightened risk of flooding in low-lying areas. Residents in these areas are being urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.
The ongoing rains and the potential for further tank bursts and flooding have prompted authorities to closely monitor the situation, while efforts to stabilize the tanks and prevent further damage continue.
