THE water supply situation in the southwest district on Penang island is expected to be fully restored today, after some 120,000 households in the district have been affected for the past few days, according to Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
“We expect those areas at the ‘end of the line’ (EoL), especially in Sungai Ara and Bayan Lepas, to have their water supply return to normalcy today. Currently, the water supply is about 97% restored.
“The restoration process to those affected areas will take a longer time because the affected areas are located ‘end of the line’ in the water system.
“We hope the Perak-Penang water deal, which is considered to be a long-term solution to the water issue in the state, will be materialised soon,” he told reporters after being asked about the water issue affecting thousands of households in several parts of the state.
On call by certain quarters for the state to offer rebates to the affected households, Chow said the state would consider the request, but stressed it was not a solution.
On the scheduled water cut from Jan 10 to Jan 14 next month, Chow said a meeting with the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) would take place to discuss the matter.
“We hope the impact will be minimised next month, and we look forward to addressing any shortcomings that may occur. Of course, we know the impact from water disruption is there, but we strive our best to reduce the impact on the water consumers,” he said.
Earlier, Chow attended the groundbreaking ceremony of Kek Lok Si Charitable Hospital’s extension in Air Itam.
The hospital is now embarking on a new project, which is to add a renal dialysis centre and a cardiology department.
Among those present during the ceremony were Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, the former temple’s former committee chairman Datuk Seri Venerable Seck Jit Heng, Thailand consul general in Penang Raschada Jiwalai, Kek Lok Si Charitable Hospital board member Datuk Seri Dr Teng Hock Nan, and Kek Lok Si Charitable Hospital Board of Visitors chairman Datuk Khoo Boo Leong.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis
Video by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar