GEORGE TOWN, January 26 – The emergency response efforts at Sungai Perai are encountering challenges, primarily due to adverse weather conditions. The original diving team faced obstacles such as heavy rain and strong underwater currents, leading to a delay in the execution of “Plan A.” To expedite the process, a new team of 10 divers took over at 2:00 am today, determined to complete the crucial underwater clamping works promptly. In response to the pressing situation, the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) activated an auxiliary supply plan at Bukit Dumbar, commencing from 12:00 noon yesterday.
This initiative aims to provide treated water from the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant to approximately 15,000 to 20,000 of the 120,000 affected consumers. The water is being channeled through the undamaged 1,350mm pipeline to the Bukit Dumbar Complex on Penang Island and redistributed to affected areas from Gelugor to Bayan Lepas. Although this auxiliary supply scenario comes with low pressure and intermittent supply, it provides some relief to consumers.
In a surprising turn of events, the preparatory works for “Plan B” are ahead of schedule, thanks to the contractor’s rapid efforts. PBAPP is now considering the possibility of implementing diversion works to connect the two new 600mm pipelines on Sunday (28.1.2024), a day earlier than the initially scheduled Monday (29.1.2024). More updates on both “Plan A” and “Plan B” are expected soon, pending verification of facts and figures. The collective efforts underline the urgency and commitment to restoring water supply to the affected areas as swiftly as possible.
