Tanjung belanja: The water level of Sungai Perak in Tanjung Belanja, Parit, has been declining due to hot weather and a prolonged dry spell, affecting the daily catch and income of small-scale fishermen. Secretary of the Village Development and Security Committee (JPKK) of Kampung Talang Tasik, Tanjung Belanja, Ali Aznan Yaakub said the river's water level began to fall sharply more than two weeks ago, after the area went without rain for nearly three weeks.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ali Aznan stated that the lack of rainfall has resulted in visible sandbanks, especially near the bridge, forcing fishermen to suspend their fishing and prawning activities. The Sungai Perak is crucial for small-scale fishermen from nearby villages, including Kampung Tepus, Copin, and Kampung Tua, who rely on it to supplement their livelihoods.

Ali Aznan emphasized that the water level downstream is likely to recover only if heavy rain falls upstream, particularly around Gerik, as local rain would not suffice. Meanwhile, Gunung Semanggol and Selinsing Area Farmers' Organisation (PPK) business manager Roslina Mustafa reported that padi farmers and local growers are also facing water shortages in their agricultural areas. The ongoing drought since late last year has reduced water levels near the Bukit Merah catchment area, affecting padi fields.

Roslina explained that although an irrigation schedule has been implemented, it is insufficient to meet the needs of all padi fields, especially those on higher ground. Only low-lying areas around Selinsing and parts of Semanggol continue to receive water, while other farmers must rely on pumps. The drought has also led to uneven soil conditions when heavy machinery is used, impacting the padi fields.

State Infrastructure, Energy, Water and Public Transport Committee chairman Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin mentioned that the state Department of Irrigation and Drainage has requested cloud-seeding operations around Tasik Temengor and the Bukit Merah Dam to increase rainfall chances.