India, Dec. 1 -- severe flood situation is currently affecting Hanwella and surrounding low-lying areas due to the rising water levels of the Kelani River basin.

The Water Resources Department reports that the water level at the Hanwella gauging station has reached 9.78 meters, indicating an almost major flood level.

According to L.S. Suriya Bandara, Director of Water Management at the Department of Irrigation, the situation has arisen due to the continued rise in water levels across the Kelani River basin.

Accordingly, the water gauge reading at Nagalagama Street is recorded at 8.35 feet, which the Director stated is the highest water level in recent history.

He further noted that, although no further rise is expected at this time, t...