Switch off lights, close those taps

The government yesterday appealed to the people to reduce electricity and water consumption in view of the current drought conditions. The Ceylon Electricity Board and the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) made separate appeals to the people to reduce consumption as the Met Department warned that the drought conditions could prevail for sometime.

A bund being built in Ambatale to prevent sea water from flowing into the reservoir.


NWSDB General Manager K.L.L. Premanath said that due to the dry weather conditions, water consumption in Colombo and the suburbs had increased.

He called on the people to limit their bathing time, avoid regular vehicle washing and refrain from bathing animals with pipe-borne water. “If the people cooperate, we can continue to provide water. If not, some areas will not receive sufficient water,” he said.

CEB Chairman W. Abeywickreme said that due to the lack of rain, about 80-85 per cent of power was generated through thermal power. “We spend a lot in producing thermal power and, therefore, we ask the people to restrict the use of electricity,” he said.

Prof. Abeywickreme said electricity use should be reduced, especially at the peak times between 6.30 p.m. and 9.30 p.m. He advised the people to switch off unnecessary lights and gather together in one place for an hour or so in family or religious activities.

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