How is Penang managing water supply with low dam levels?

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Penang Manages Water Supply Amidst Low Air Itam Dam Levels Through Reduced Drawdowns and Alternative Pumping

Water supply services in the Air Itam service area remain normal despite the Air Itam Dam's effective capacity standing at 30.3 per cent. This stability is primarily attributed to the implementation of the Air Itam Dam Action Plan 2024 (AIDAP 2024) by the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP), which has significantly reduced daily raw water drawdowns from the dam since February 5, 2024. To compensate for these reduced drawdowns, PBAPP is supplementing the supply by pumping 33 million litres per day (MLD) from the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant (WTP) to the affected service area.
Implementation of AIDAP 2024 Significantly Curbs Dam Drawdowns

The AIDAP 2024 has led to a substantial decrease in the amount of water drawn daily from the Air Itam Dam. Under this plan, only 11 MLD are being drawn, a considerable reduction from the typical 44 MLD drawn during normal non-dry weather periods and the 22 MLD controlled during dry weather. This strategic reduction in drawdowns has been effective in preserving the dam's reserves, as evidenced by the minimal drop of only 2.5 per cent in its effective capacity since the plan's inception, bringing it from 32.8 per cent to the current 30.3 per cent.
Alternative Water Sources Supplementing Supply

PBAPP is actively utilising alternative water sources to ensure consistent supply to consumers in the Air Itam area. The corporation is pumping 33 MLD from the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant to mitigate the impact of lower drawdowns from the Air Itam Dam. This measure ensures that the reduced reliance on the dam does not translate into a shortfall for residents, maintaining the normal flow of water services.
Future Rainfall Projections and Consumer Advice

Looking ahead, international weather reports indicate a potential transition from the El Niño phenomenon to a wetter La Niña season. METMalaysia forecasts higher rainfall in Penang between April and July 2024, coinciding with the arrival of an inter-monsoon period. In anticipation of these conditions and to further safeguard water reserves, consumers, particularly those in the Air Itam areas, are being advised to reduce their water consumption by 10 per cent during April, May, and June.
Potential for Stricter Controls and Public Inconvenience

PBAPP has indicated that further measures can be implemented if necessary to extend the dam's water reserves. These would involve tightening the AIDAP water supply controls. However, the corporation acknowledges that such stricter controls could lead to some inconvenience for consumers within the Air Itam service area, suggesting a careful balancing act between conservation and service continuity.

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How is Penang managing water supply with low dam levels?

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