KUALA KRAI: The extreme hot weather since last month has caused the Kelantan river at Krai Steps here to dry up drastically.
Before the hot spell, the water level of the river measured at 17m but to date, the water level has dropped by 1.33m to 15.67m.
The situation has resulted in a tiny island, around the size of a football field, to have formed in the middle of the river.
Villager Siti Mariam Mohamad said the river started to dry up a month ago following the hot weather.
"The phenomenon happened as there was no rain in Kuala Krai since last month.
"Normally, there were many boat passengers plying along the river to send villagers from Kampung Keluak and Kampung Taku to Kuala Krai town.
"But since last month, many of the boat owners decided to cease their operations," said the 55-year-old former teacher.
Boat operator Firdaus Mohd Zain said many children took the opportunity to play on the 'football field' in the evening.
"The phenomenon also attracts outside people to come to Krai Steps and play on the field," said the 22-year-old when met.
Firdaus who has been operating boats since he was 20, said their visits have boost the income of local boatmen.
"Although many have ceased their operation as they afraid their boats might suffer damage, for me and other operators, this is the time we want to boost our income.
"I have collected between RM20 and RM50 per trip from visitors who want to go to the 'field' and its surrounding areas," he added.