Artificial rain project to be implemented for first time to overcome hydro power generation woes during drought

In order to mitigate the affects of humid weather on hydro-power generation during the warmer months, the Ministry of Power, Energy and Business Development has taken measures to initiate an artificial rain generation project in the country.

Accordingly a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today (Jan 23) between the Air Force and the Ceylon Electricity Board which comes under the purview of the Minstry of Power, Energy, and Business Development.

The project which will be carried out by obtaining the technical assistance of the Thailand government is expected to generate artificial rain across the country's dry zones during periods of drought.

The MoU was signed  at the Air Force Headquarters between the Secretary to the Ministry Dr. B.M.S. Batagoda and Air Force Commander Air Marshal Kapila Jayampathy.

The agreement was signed in the presence of Minister of Power and Energy Ravi Karunanayake, and his State Minister Champika Premadasa.

The Sri Lanka Air Force had expressed agreement to provide air support in the implementation of the project.

Mr Karunanayake said at the signing of the MoU that this initiative  would be implemented by the end of next month.