PENANG is ahead of schedule in addressing water supply issues, particularly in the replacement of two leaking valves at the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant and repair works at various locations, says Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Chow announced that the valve replacement and water repair works, originally slated for completion within 24 hours from 6am today, have been accomplished ahead by several hours. Out of 22 locations that underwent minor repairs, 19 were completed by afternoon today.
With the successful replacement of the valves, he said residents in north, central and south Seberang Perai, and parts of George Town would be able to receive their water supply after 6am tomorrow.
“As I said earlier today, we cannot jump for joy now. Until and unless the last consumer at the furthest (end of line) regains water supply, we cannot consider the operation successful yet,” Chow told reporters after visiting Sunway Cassia in Batu Maung where a water tanker has been stationed.
He said now they have entered into the water delivery stage.
He also said the rupture of a water pipe at the riverbed of Sungai Perai would not cause any delay in the restoration of the water supply.
Chow, who inspected the pipe at Sungai Perai at about 2pm today, reported that the issue was expected to be resolved by 3pm today with the installation of four clamps to fortify the area. Last December, the pipe underwent repair work due to a leak.
Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) enlisted a team of 16 divers to carry out repairs this time.
“This pipe definitely will have to be replaced in the future because it is already rusty. The rupture today will not delay water treatment (at Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant), because that line can be isolated if needed,” explained Chow.
Chow also revealed that in addition to drawing raw water from the Sungai Muda for treatment at the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant, the Mengkuang Dam would now augment its supply by channelling 600MLD to the plant. Previously, the dam provided 300MLD, but with the installation of an additional pipe, a greater volume of water could be directed to the treatment facility.
Highlighting the importance of replenishing the Bukit Dumbar reservoir with treated water via submarine pipes, Chow emphasised the subsequent release of water to other reservoirs in Bukit Gedong and Teluk Kumbar.
Chow also expressed his gratitude to SPAN (National Water Services Commission) and voluntary fire brigades for their assistance in water distribution starting from 6pm today, a day earlier than planned.
During the site visit, Chow was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister I Prof Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid, Penang State Secretary Datuk Rosli Isa, Bayan Baru MP Sim Tze Tzin, MPKK Desa Jelita chairman Zulkiflee Sahat and MPKK Kekabu committee member S.V. Manimaran.
Dr Mohamad said PBAPP had strategically placed five flexi tanks and 16 static tanks in Batu Maung to facilitate public access to water. His service centre also contributed to the relief efforts by donating 200 water pails to residents.
Sim said although the Penang government has devised short, middle and long-term plans for water security, the people must recognise water as a precious commodity. He also urged Penangites to be mindful of their water consumption and strive not to become the highest water consumers in the country.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Mohd Radzi
Video by Ahmad Adil Mohamad