According to State Infrastructure and Agriculture Committee chairman Izham Hashim, Selangor has enough water to last for nine months to meet the needs of the population in light of the current El Nino phenomenon in the country.
Izham Hashim stated that Selangor’s dams have enough water storage for consumer use for six months, while the water retention ponds can last for three months. He told the media during a working visit to the Klang River conservation project site that they are working to ensure all supplies are connected to allow them to use the water when necessary.
He noted that their efforts are in line with a study conducted by the National Water Research Institute of Malaysia (NAHRIM), which anticipates drought in the country in 2026. He emphasized the importance of planning and making preparations for the recurring drought phenomenon, with the last drought occurring in 2014.
During his visit to the Klang River conservation project site, Izham mentioned that the project will involve work to deepen and widen the 56-kilometre Klang River, strengthen the slopes, and construct bunds. The project is expected to be completed in 2028 and will cost RM700 million.
He described the difficulty of dredging the river due to the accumulated rubbish and sediments at the bottom of the river, which can be up to two to three metres high, compared to the river’s depth of four metres. Izham expressed hope that the addition of a Cutter Suction Dredger will help manage this problem better.
He added that the project aims to increase the Klang River’s capacity by 40% when it is fully completed. – Bernama
