Many parts of Matara and Kamburupitiya areas remain submerged after Nilwala River overflowed due to prevailing torrential rainfall, the Irrigation Department says.

Eng. S.P.C. Sugeeshwara, the Director of Irrigation (Hydrology & Disaster Management), urged the motorists passing through these areas to exercise caution.

Athuraliya, Malimbada, Kamburupitiya and Matara Divisional Secretariat divisions were inundated by floodwater after being pounded by heavy rainfall. Sugeeshwara said these low-lying areas of Nilwala River are likely to remain affected throughout the day.

Meanwhile, the water levels of Kirindi Oya, which were on the rise last night at Wellawaya, have now returned to normal, Mr. Sugeeshwara added.

The Ella-Wellawaya main road, which was blocked for traffic due to earth slips and fallen trees, has been reopened this morning after being cleared. The road was temporarily closed for vehicular movement at 7th Mile Post in Randeniya last evening. 

-adaderana