GEORGE TOWN, August 21 — Penang’s water supply is under pressure as the effective capacities of the Air Itam Dam and Teluk Bahang Dam have dropped significantly due to prolonged dry weather. The Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) has issued a warning to residents in affected areas, including Air Itam, Farlim, Teluk Bahang, Batu Ferringhi, and Tanjung Bungah, urging them to reduce their water consumption until the expected heavy rainfall arrives later this year.
The CEO of PBAHB and PBAPP highlighted that the situation is not isolated to Penang, as neighboring states Kedah and Perak are experiencing similar challenges with low dam levels. PBAPP is implementing several mitigation measures, such as pumping additional treated water into the Air Itam service area and tapping rainwater from additional water catchment areas. However, the corporation stressed that public cooperation is crucial to prevent a potential water shortage.
Residents are encouraged to minimize non-essential water use, such as washing vehicles and watering gardens, and to avoid leaving taps running. PBAPP also indicated that cloud seeding operations may be requested to enhance rainfall in key catchment areas. The public is urged to continue conserving water until the dams are refilled to safe levels, which is anticipated to occur by the end of 2024.
