PBAPP directed to plan for earlier restoration of water supply, says CM

GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) aims to restore water supply to more than 50% of the population within a 72-hour period, says Chow Kon Yeow.

The Chief Minister said this follows the scheduled water disruptions from Jan 10 to 14 next year after the state water authority decided to replace the two main control valves measuring 1,200mm in the main treated water pipe within the plant, which has been leaking, at the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant.

Chow said that the state government also has directed PBAPP to plan and coordinate the restoration of water supply more expeditiously to minimise difficulties for the people and businesses in Penang.

“The overall objective is to ensure that the majority, or more than 50%, of the affected users have their water supply restored within a 72-hour period.

“I have also instructed PBAPP to expedite the restoration of water supply for non-domestic users in Batu Kawan, Bukit Minyak, Butterworth, Perai, Georgetown, and the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone as soon as possible,” he said during a press conference in Komtar on Monday (Dec 11).

Chow also said during the duration of the scheduled water supply interruption, PBAPP will deploy a fleet of 55 water tankers to transport water, according to fixed schedules, to affected consumers.

The Chief Minister said PBAPP is still seeking the assistance of other state water operators to send more water tankers to Penang.

He said a total of 60 static water tanks will also be installed in targeted areas to help meet the water needs of consumers.

Apart from that, Chow also said the people of Penang play a crucial role beyond being mere water consumers.

“It is our collective responsibility to actively participate in ensuring the seamless execution of water facility maintenance and recovery operations.

He also called on Penangites to work collaboratively with the state government to use water wisely as one of the efforts to contribute to the efficient functioning and restoration of our water infrastructure.