WATER levels at major dams in Penang remain healthy and manageable, and the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) will continue implementing water management measures introduced in 2023 to ensure a stable and sufficient water supply throughout the year.
Its chief executive officer, Datuk K. Pathmanathan, shared this with Buletin Mutiara via a statement today. According to him, the storage levels (as of 1 pm) indicate that the situation is under control despite ongoing concerns over climate change.
“The Air Itam Dam recorded a water level of 72%, which can sustain supply for approximately 71 days without rainfall.
“Meanwhile, the Teluk Bahang Dam stands at 85.3%, with an estimated supply duration of 259 days, while the Mengkuang Dam is at 91.3%, capable of lasting about 132 days,” he said.
Pathmanathan said that to ensure a continuous and reliable water supply in Penang, particularly on the island, PBAPP has implemented a range of measures since 2023.
“These include the strategic release of raw water from the expanded Mengkuang Dam, when necessary, to prevent shortages and sustain long-term supply stability.
“Another key initiative is the Penang Double Dam Defence Plan (D3PI), which is an extension of the Air Itam Dam Action Plan (AIDAP). In addition to safeguarding areas served by the Air Itam Dam, the D3PI also extends coverage to parts of the areas served by the Teluk Bahang Dam.
“Since January 1 this year, PBAPP has also adopted a cautious approach in releasing water from the two dams on the island to prolong their operational resilience,” said Pathmanathan.
However, Pathmanathan noted that the impact of climate change has made rainfall patterns in the catchment areas of the two dams increasingly unpredictable.
“As long as the D3PI remains workable, we will continue to manage water releases prudently to ensure a sustainable supply,” he said.
Pathmanathan also expressed PBAPP’s appreciation to water consumers in Penang for their continued support of its call for prudent water use, and hoped that such efforts would be maintained throughout the festive season and in the months ahead.
“By reducing water consumption at home, consumers can play a vital role in ensuring a sufficient and stable water supply for the state throughout the year,” he said.
According to the PBAPP website, the effective capacities (as of 9:54 pm) at Air Itam, Mengkuang, and Teluk Bahang Dams are 72.0%, 85.3%, and 91.3%, respectively.
For further information on the weather forecast and Penang dams’ water levels, visit:
[Malaysian Meteorological Department](https://www.met.gov.my/home)
[Penang Water Supply Corporation](https://pba.com.my/)
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Alissala Thian