KANGAR: The upgrade of the Timah Tasoh Dam in Padang Besar to boost Perlis' water storage capacity is set for completion in 2026.
State Infrastructure and Public Transport Committee chairman Izizam Ibrahim said the state Irrigation and Drainage Department (DID) is actively implementing the project, now in its third phase.
Izizam (Perikatan Nasional-Titi Tinggi) said the project aims to ensure a long-term, uninterrupted domestic water supply for residents.
"This project will enhance water storage to meet domestic and agricultural demands. However, farmers are advised to plan their water usage carefully to avoid wastage," he said during the state legislative assembly sitting today.
He added that other initiatives to ensure adequate agricultural water supply include rescheduling the padi planting season, ensuring the main cultivation season ends by January each year.
"During the main padi planting season from September to December, Perlis receives significant rain, which improves padi quality and yield," he said in response to questions from Haziq Asyraf Dun (PN-Beseri) on the state's efforts to review the minimum water level at Timah Tasoh Dam for agricultural use.
He said that, according to current procedures, agricultural water supply will be halted when the dam's water level reaches 27.1m.
"This minimum level is set by the state to ensure the domestic water supply, which can only last for 144 days without rain."
Based on the DID's Infobanjir portal, Timah Tasuh Dam's water level today stood at 26.76m which is past the danger threshold level of 29.60m.