GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) has initiated its dry weather protocols since mid-November to secure an adequate water supply amid anticipated high demand during the festive season in the first quarter of 2025.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk K Pathmanathan, chief executive officer of PBAPP, emphasized the importance of water conservation among consumers during this period. He advised residents to continue these practices until more consistent rainfall is expected, potentially in April or May of the following year. Pathmanathan specifically called on residents in areas such as Air Itam, Farlim, Teluk Bahang, Batu Ferringhi, Tanjong Bungah, and Tanjong Tokong to use water judiciously, as conserved water could extend the longevity of dam reserves.
Despite some rainfall in recent months, the effective capacities of the Air Itam Dam and Teluk Bahang Dam have not fully recovered. While the Air Itam Dam’s capacity increased from 30.8 percent in August to 76.7 percent by December’s end, and the Teluk Bahang Dam rose from 25.8 percent to 61.7 percent in the same timeframe, these levels remain insufficient for the high water usage expected during early 2025 festivities. Between September 1 and December 29, the dams’ catchment areas recorded 979.0 millimeters of rain for Air Itam Dam and 944.5 millimeters for Teluk Bahang Dam, which, although improvements, still fall short of meeting the average daily demand of 883 million liters in November.
Pathmanathan attributed the reduced dam capacities to the prolonged drought conditions caused by the El Nino phenomenon this year. However, he noted the encouraging status of the expanded Mengkuang Dam in Bukit Mertajam, which boasted an effective capacity of 91.6 percent as of December 29. This dam could potentially supply water to Seberang Perai and the South West district of Penang if necessary.
Looking ahead, Pathmanathan mentioned that PBAPP anticipates a light La Nina phenomenon early next year, which could bring more consistent rainfall patterns, potentially alleviating water supply concerns.