Maskeliya Oya | |
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Downstream view of the Maskeliya Oya, as seen from near the Polpitiya Hydroelectric Power Station.
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Basin features | |
Main source | Peak Wilderness Sanctuary |
River mouth | Merges with Kehelgamu Oya, forming the Kelani River |
River system | Kelani |
Physical characteristics | |
Length | 40 km (25 mi) |
The Maskeliya Oya (translated into Maskeliya River from Sinhala) is a major upstream tributary of the Kelani River. The tributary measures approximately 40 km (25 mi) in length, originating from the hills of the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, before passing through the Maskeliya Reservoir. Maskeliya Oya converges with the Kehelgamu Oya at Kalugala, forming the 100 km (62 mi) long Kelani River. The river is heavily used for hydroelectric power generation.
The following table lists the major features along the Maskeliya Oya, from its origins further upstream. Some dams hold back water, and transfer a percentage of it to hydroelectric power stations located further downstream, via tunnels.
Coordinates: 06°58′15″N 80°27′36″E / 6.97083°N 80.46000°E