BUKIT MERTAJAM – The Mengkuang Dam, Seberang Perai’s biggest reservoir, has been reopened following a long-drawn out RM1.2 billion expansion project that has increased its water capacity nearly fourfold.
“Penang now has a strategic water storage dam in store for the drought season and water supply needs which are increasing in the 21st century,” Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said today.
He said this during the handing-over ceremony of the dam to the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) following the completion of phase one of the project. The next phases labelled as 2A and 2B mainly involve facilities and infrastructure on areas surrounding the water.
On hand to receive the ceremonial keys was PBAPP chief executive officer Datuk Jaseni Maidinsa.
Also present were state executive councillors Zairil Khir Johari, Norlela Ariffin, and Chong Eng, and Seberang Prai City Council mayor Datuk Rozali Mohamud.
The expansion has effectively increased the water capacity from 22 billion litres to 86.4 billion litres.
Chow explained that the water at the dam is pumped from Sungai Muda and Sungai Kulim rivers to use during drought.
During normal periods, water is extracted from Sungai Muda to the Sungai Dua water treatment plant. Some 80% of this treated water is sent to the island.
“No water from Mengkuang Dam is sent to the Sungai Dua water treatment plant during rainy days or when the water level at Sungai Dua is high,” Chow said.
“Penang has never conducted water rationing during the droughts unlike other states as the PBAPP has better water management exercise,” he added.
The project was a federal government initiative launched in 2011.
Chow said that the federal government can provide a win-win situation for northern states by providing proper support in resolving any cross-boundary water issues.
He said the completion of phase one of the Mengkuang Dam expansion project is a reflection of the win-win situation between the federal and state governments.
“We should use our laws, principles and agreements for the betterment of the people,” he said. – The Vibes, January 9, 2021
