Sungai Muda Water Levels Stabilize, Ensuring Safe Supply for Penang

After several days of considerable rainfall, the water levels in Sungai Muda have stabilized, alleviating concerns for water authorities and residents in Penang. The Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) has reported that the river's level now exceeds two metres, deemed adequate for meeting the current raw water requirements of the state. This positive shift followed a worrying period of declining levels last month, prompting re-evaluation of the region's water resource strategies.

During a recent inspection of a pipeline project in Jelutong, PBAPP's CEO Datuk K. Pathmanathan provided the latest details, indicating the river has maintained a steady level thanks to ongoing rainfall across key catchment areas. With a close watch on the river's status in the upcoming weeks, officials remain vigilant as it is crucial for ensuring Penang’s primary water supply.

Just a month prior, Sungai Muda faced a dramatic decline in water levels, prompting alarm among state officials. Reports indicated that levels at the Lahar Tiang intake had fallen dangerously low to 1.27 metres, raising fears of potential supply disruptions, especially as demand spikes during warmer months. This situation reignited discussions about long-term water security measures for Penang.

Pathmanathan noted that upstream water releases in Kedah, meant for agricultural purposes, may have contributed to the previous drop in water levels, reminding authorities of the interconnectedness of the river systems. Close coordination is now essential to prevent any further declines.

While the immediate situation appears stable, PBAPP cautioned that rainfall is expected to taper off until September, prompting officials to advocate for careful resource management. The region must remain prepared for potential dry spells, which could tax the water supply systems.

In addition to monitoring Sungai Muda, officials are keep tabs on the water levels of various dams in Penang. The Air Itam Dam is operating at approximately 52.8 per cent capacity, while the Teluk Bahang Dam is at around 71.8 per cent. Despite being manageable, these levels have shown a gradual decline recently.

Meanwhile, the Expanded Mengkuang Dam benefits from a robust storage level of about 90.2 per cent, providing reassurance for Penang’s water reserve plans. Officials remind the public of the need for vigilance as weather conditions can shift dramatically.

As part of ongoing efforts, PBAPP intends to enhance the transfer of raw water from Sungai Muda to Penang Island. Currently, about 420 million litres per day are delivered to residents, and the corporation plans to boost this by an additional 20 million litres daily to better meet the increasing demand.

This proactive measure aims to minimize risks of shortages in the forthcoming dry months while ensuring steady water services for Penang's inhabitants. PBAPP also encourages the community to maintain responsible water usage amid unpredictable weather patterns.