KUCHING: THE hot and dry weather in Saratok has almost dried up the Sungai Lichok water treatment plant, causing water shortage to more than 10,000 villagers.
Social Development Minister Tan Sri William Mawan Ikom said the dry spell had hit more than three weeks ago, which resulted in low water level in the water treatment plant.
Mawan, who is also Saratok member of parliament, said he was aware of the situation and had directed Public Works Department (PWD) in Betong to deliver clean water to the affected villages tomorrow.
The current water treatment plant was no longer able to cope with the increasing demand for water supply in Saratok and the surrounding areas.
Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Alfred Jabu Numpang said the state government was monitoring the construction of the new Saratok Water Treatment Plant at Kaki Wong to ensure it would be completed in October.
The RM100 million water treatment plant was scheduled to be completed in June last year but the deadline had been extended four times.
However, Jabu said every
water shortage report was addressed as there were at least 10 deliveries to the villages in Saratok, Betong and Spaoh by tankers everyday.
Jabu, who is also the Natural Disaster Management Committee (JPBBN) chairman, said Hari Raya celebrations would not be affected by the water crisis.
“We are ready to delivery water supply and mineral water if there’s any distress call on water shortage, no matter how far or remote they are, especially villages along
the coastal areas.”
He said the committee was working with PWD, Welfare Department, Fire and Rescue Department and resident office while the National Security Council would also allocate funds if needed to ensure no disruption of water delivery.