CHIEF Minister Chow Kon Yeow addressed the water supply situation in the southwest district, emphasising that areas, particularly those at the ‘end of the line’ (EoL), relying on water tankers are expected to have their supply restored today.
“We hope that these areas will get their water supply restored by today. The restoration process involves technical aspects,” Chow said during a press conference at the Butterworth Arena after attending the Affordable Homes and Property Expo today.
Following a pipe leakage at the bottom of Sungai Perai on Dec 19 affecting 200,000 consumers, subsequent welding work on Dec 21 faced another leak, causing water interruption.
Chow also discussed the Penang Water Supply Corporation’s (PBAPP) upcoming application for a water tariff review for the domestic category, stating the need for periodic adjustments, last done in 2015.
“PBAPP has successfully implemented new water tariff adjustments for non-domestic and special categories.
“PBAPP will need to submit its application for water tariff review for the domestic category to the National Water Services Commission (SPAN).
“The corporation will soon unveil tariff adjustments for the domestic category.
“This plan contains our expected domestic water tariff to enable us to carry out our role as a water operator,” he said.
This disclosure came as Chow, who also chairs PBAPP, highlighted the mandatory submission of their business plan every three years as part of the license renewal process.
As PBAPP chairman, he mentioned the subsidy of over RM100 million for domestic consumption, emphasising the cost to treat 1,000 litres being RM1.00, sold at RM0.30.
Story by Tanushalin Moroter
Pix by Law Suun Ting
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud