The National Water Services Commission (SPAN) has reported concerning dam levels in certain areas. As of Friday (March 29), the current water level at the Air Hitam Dam is 34.10%, which is only sufficient for the next five days. Despite being categorized under the “alert level,” the water supply is not expected to be disrupted, according to data shared by SPAN.
SPAN stated, “Several water supply dams in the north have shown decreasing water levels, are at the ‘alert level,’ and have not reached a ‘critical level.’” Regions in the northern area impacted include BS Padang Saga in Kedah (37.25%), Malut Dam in Kedah (38.9%), Muda in Kedah (40%), and Tima Tasoh in Perlis (56.21%).
Regarding the Eastern Region operations (Terengganu, Kelantan, and Pahang), most dams or rivers are stable. All water treatment plants are functioning at normal capacity except for the Kelar water treatment plant in Kelantan, which has decreased due to the depletion of raw water resources.
Furthermore, several regions in Kelantan are facing low water pressure due to the degradation of raw water supply sources. Mitigation measures have been taken by the Sungai Pagar Dam operator to address Labuan’s current water supply situation,” SPAN stated.
SPAN highlighted that major dam levels in Perak, Selangor, Melaka, Negri Sembilan, Pahang, and most dams in Johor are currently at satisfactory levels above 80%. In the Central Region (Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, and Putrajaya), seven dams and three main rivers in Selangor have recorded maximum levels with all 34 water treatment plants operating normally.
Only the West Sembrong Dam in Johor is at an “alert level” in the Southern Region (Johor, Negri Sembilan, and Melaka) with a current level of 31.37%. However, this situation does not affect the production of treated water at the West Sembrong water treatment plant, according to SPAN.
SPAN anticipates a 10% to 15% increase in water supply demand compared to current production before the festive season. Despite the overall control of water supply in most states, SPAN acknowledges the possibility of disruptions if the downward trend continues in the coming weeks.
It was noted by SPAN that there are a total of 47 dams and 67 main water treatment plants nationwide, ensuring the continuous monitoring and management of water resources for the population’s needs.
