COLOMBO, Sept. 14 -- The government is taking measures to mitigate the prevailing drought while preparing to conserve the anticipated heavy rainfall during the forthcoming northeast monsoon for agriculture, drinking water and wildlife, Environment Minister Dr Dammika Patabendi said.

Speaking to journalists after attending the opening of the four-day Green Climate Fund (GCF) Regional Dialogue for Eastern and Southern Asia in Colombo on Monday (14), the Minister said authorities were working to rehabilitate rivers and tanks to maximize water storage ahead of the expected rains.

The regional dialogue, being held from September 14 to 17, has brought together more than 120 delegates from 10 countries to discuss climate action and financing....