PENANG can still extract water from Sungai Muda for treatment despite the low water level in Sungai Muda.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, in replying to journalists, said the pumps at the intake were installed deeper into the river, hence, water could still be extracted despite low water levels.
“We will continue to monitor the situation.
“The efficacy of water extraction from the river hinges on the strategic placement of the pumps.
“The intakes in Kedah are situated upstream of the river, benefiting from higher water levels compared to those downstream, where our intake points are located.
“Should these intakes (in Kedah) encounter challenges in water extraction due to decreased river levels, it suggests that the pump installations are positioned at elevations exceeding the water levels.
“Nevertheless, we can still extract water from Sungai Muda,” he explained.
Syarikat Air Darul Aman (Sada) issued a statement yesterday (April 16) informing water consumers in Kedah that the Sungai Muda water level has decreased following the prolonged dry season.
On its Facebook page, Sada highlighted a concerning trend in the operations of the Sungai Petani / Pinang Tunggal water treatment plant, indicating a decline. This downturn poses a potential risk of water supply disruptions for consumers in the Kuala Muda district.
It mentioned that the Lembaga Sumber Air Negeri Kedah (LSANK) and the Pejabat Lembangan Sungai Muda have released more water from the Beris Dam to stabilise the Sungai Muda water level.
Sada cautioned its water consumers to store water and use it responsibly.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud