THE Air Itam Dam is currently undergoing repair works and works are scheduled to complete in July.
Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) chief executive officer Datuk Jaseni Maidinsa said a 98m-long section on the left abutment of the Air Itam Dam was showing signs of erosion.
“The erosion worsened in September, October and November 2017, due to the heavy water flow. Penang was also hit by a bad storm during that period.
“The damaged section must be repaired to ensure the safety of the dam’s perimeter road and structural integrity. Air Itam Dam serves 175,000 people in Air Itam, Paya Terubong and the surrounding areas,” Jaseni said today.
Jaseni said further soil erosion would affect the quality of raw water stored in the 57-year-old dam.
“We have appointed a geotechnical specialist (contractor) to repair and stabilise damaged section. The damaged section was not visible then due to the high water level at Air Itam Dam.
“Previously, we were unable to repair the dam because the water level was high. Now is the best time conduct the emergency repair and stabilising works,” he added.
Jaseni said the cost of the repair works was RM1.6 million.
“The work progress is now at 54%. We are 36% ahead of schedule.
“We thank you for your understanding and we apologise for the inconvenience caused,” Jaseni said.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi
Video by Law Suun Ting