THE current low-level water level in Air Itam Dam is not a cause for panic, says Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) chief executive officer K. Pathmanathan.
During his visit to the Air Itam Dam this evening, Pathmanathan briefed the media that the situation can be improved with various measures.
“Do not worry as PBAPP will bear the responsibility by ensuring everything goes on smoothly.
“In fact, the water capacity in Air Itam Dam dropped until 20% previously compared to 35.4% at the time of writing.
“PBAPP will announce the contingency plans next week and will take the necessary measures to improve the situation. I will not divulge anything as of now as we need to assess the situation,” said Pathmanathan, in response to reporters’ queries about the low water capacity in Air Itam Dam.
Pathmanathan assured that the 1% daily reduction of water level in Air Itam Dam is not a cause for concern.
“It is normal for the water level to drop by 1% daily when there is no rain. On Jan 1 this year, the capacity was at about 69% before going down to 35.4% as of now,” he said.
On whether water rationing would occur, Pathmanathan said such a possibility does not arise at the moment.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was present, advised consumers reliant on the Air Itam Dam to use water judiciously.
“It would be beneficial if households could reduce their water usage by 1,000 to 2,000 litres of water daily, especially during this climate change.
“We will be awaiting the measures that will be announced by PBAPP next week,” he said.
When asked by reporters about possible measures that can be taken, Chow mentioned the potential to redirect water supply from other water resources such as in Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant and Teluk Bahang Dam.
“We can adjust the valves involved and supply the water if needed,” he said, highlighting past instances where water from Air Itam Dam was utilised to supply other affected areas during water cuts
Chow expressed satisfaction that the water restoration to the Southwest district has resumed.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Ahmad Adil Muhamad