Kelani River chemical leak triggers temporary water suspension

Water supplies to several areas in the Colombo and Gampaha districts were temporarily suspended following a chemical release from a private factory near the Kelani River. The National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) halted operations at the Ambatale and Biyagama water treatment plants as a precautionary measure to prevent toxic substances from entering the drinking water supply.

Security forces and the three armed forces assisted in emergency operations to manage the situation. Following the incident, the Disaster Management Center and security forces launched a joint investigation, while the NWSDB filed a formal police complaint to facilitate potential legal action.

Water services began being restored in stages on August 25 after laboratory tests confirmed that the water quality met required safety standards. While many areas regained supply by early morning, full restoration in locations such as Battaramulla, Kotte, and Nugegoda was expected to take longer. Authorities continue to monitor water quality to ensure consumer safety.