ALOR STAR: Kedah water concessionaire, Syarikat Air Darul Aman Sdn Bhd (Sada), has temporarily suspended the operation of its seven water treatment plants (WTPs) due to the floods that have ravaged the state since yesterday.
The state-owned company said in a statement that the cessation of the seven WTPs' operation has led to unscheduled water supply disruptions in the Padang Terap, Pendang, Kuala Muda, Sik, and Baling districts.
"This situation has arisen as a result of continuous rainfall over the past few days. As of 7 pm today, the affected WTPs include Lubuk Merbau WTP, Jeniang Baru WTP, Jeniang Lama WTP, Jeneri WTP, Nami WTP, Teloi Kanan WTP, and Sungai Limau WTP in Baling," it said.
Sada said the main WTPs in the state, such as Pelubang WTP, Bukit Pinang WTP, and Sungai Petani/Pinang Tunggal WTP, are still operating at optimal levels.
"However, Sada's continuous monitoring at the intake points of these WTPs indicates a rising trend in river water levels," it said.
Following the unscheduled water supply disruption, Sada said it has deployed water tankers to affected areas, prioritising critical premises such as temporary flood relief centres (PPS), hospitals, clinics, dialysis centres, and funeral services.
"Alternative water supply assistance is also being provided through three Water Supply Aid Centres (PAB), activated at the following locations: Masjid Muhammad, Kg. Pulau Tengah; SMK Sungai Tiang in the Pendang district; and Masjid Felda Lubuk Merbau in the Padang Terap district.
"At this time, it remains uncertain when the affected WTPs will resume operations, as water levels are still critical and are nearing the point of submerging mechanical and electrical assets at these facilities," it added.
Consumers in affected areas are advised to manage water usage prudently.
Sada said updates on the water supply disruption will be provided from time to time through its official social media platforms and website at www.sada.com.myor by contacting i-SADA at 1300-88-0017.