PBAPP to enhance services after mega water cuts last week

THE Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) will work to enhance its services, including tackling the issue of ageing infrastructure, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

Chow, who is the PBAPP board chairman, said this follows last week's mega upgrade when two 1,200mm valves were changed at the Sg Dua Water Treatment Plant while ancillary works were completed in 22 other locations.

"What is needed is the cooperation from the people in being prudent over the use of water," Chow said after witnessing the presentation of scholarships to 14 Penang undergraduates from Ancom Care Sdn Bhd here.

The company, which is a subsidiary of the listed chemicals giant - Ancom Nylex Berhad, has allocated RM1 million to operate this scholarship fund project.

Penang is the biggest consumer of treated water, while the PBAPP's tariffs are listed as also among the lowest in the country.

Chow also said there was a possibility of a water tariff hike, as part of recommendations to push the conservation and savings culture among consumers here.

As for the rebates due to the cuts, Chow said PBAPP has not received any official requests from any party for consumers in Penang.

However, he acknowledged that the water supply disruption last week has caused economic losses, especially to industry players.

Water supply is now restored to the 590,000 account holders, who were affected from last Wednesday until Sunday.

Although residents in some parts of Balik Pulau continue to suffer from low pressure, Chow said that supply is back at optimum levels for the state while those who had problems were due to the lack of an inhouse pumping system.

It is learnt that the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) is mulling about allowing the proposed hike in tariffs nationwide, as part of efforts to improve the delivery system from water supply providers while also pushing for conservation. - The Vibes, January 15, 2024.