KUCHING, June 24: The Ministry of Utilities will implement high-level water tank and booster pump projects in ‘stress areas’ around Kanowit to remedy water supply interruptions caused by overcapacity and an ageing water treatment plant.
Minister of Utilities Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi, in a statement today, said low water pressure issues had been affecting Kanowit residents for quite some time now, especially during peak festive seasons.
The Kanowit water treatment plant, first built in the 1960s, had been upgraded three times, with the last one in the 1980s. However it could no longer be upgraded due to its restrictive location, which is on top of a small hill.
As such, the Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) had proposed to place Kanowit under the Stress Area Project for the Sibu Water Authority for implementation soon.
“Low water pressure (in Kanowit), especially around the hilly terrains of Mapai, has been affecting the people, especially during festive seasons. The ministry is looking into this issue seriously and in the process of formulating a long-term solution. It is proposed that the high-level water tanks and booster pumps projects under the Stress Area Programme be carried out at affected areas, particularly at the Rh Selunggang junction in Mapai, to improve water pressure to Rh Awin, SK Balingiau and surrounding areas.
“The ministry, on behalf of the state government, will always strive to ensure that the rural areas will have constant supply of treated water, especially Rh Awin, Rh Bajut and Rh Andin, while working together with JBALB.”
Dr Rundi said improvements would be carried out regularly on the Nanga Tada water treatment plant and all the way to the Mapai area. — DayakDaily
