In drought-stricken Sri Lanka, farmers watch wells empty and wildlife crowd shrinking water holes

Sri Lanka is grappling with a severe drought affecting farmers and wildlife alike. When a long-standing civil war forced Samantha Pushpakumara from his village, he anticipated a stable future through farming. However, the absence of rainfall has disrupted his livelihood. Similar to Pushpakumara, many farmers in north-central Sri Lanka are witnessing their wells drying up, leading to water shortages that threaten their survival.

The country's 74 reservoirs have only reached one-third of their full capacity, prompting water rationing in various regions. Residents are relying on government-provided water deliveries and charities to meet their basic needs. In addition to the dire situation for farmers, wildlife is also suffering. In Yala National Park, elephants, deer, and other animals are experiencing dehydration and heat stress due to the lack of water at natural and artificial watering holes. As the drought continues, the impact on both humans and wildlife is becoming increasingly severe.