What caused the Kuala Perlis ferry terminal to face low tide issues?

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Sedimentation is the primary cause of low tide issues at the Kuala Perlis ferry terminal.

Low tide incidents at the Kuala Perlis Passenger Ferry Terminal, which have disrupted ferry services by preventing departures and berthing, are primarily caused by sedimentation. This recurring issue leads to the water depth in the navigation channel dropping to levels insufficient for vessel operation, as seen on February 2 when the depth fell below 1.6 meters, causing significant delays and congestion.
Navigation Channel Depth Reduction Due to Sedimentation

Sedimentation is a persistent problem in the navigation channel and basin of the Kuala Perlis Passenger Ferry Terminal. This process involves the accumulation of silt and other materials, which gradually reduces the water depth. For instance, an incident on February 2 highlighted this problem when the water in the navigation channel dropped below 1.6 meters, preventing Langkawi-Kuala Perlis ferries from departing on schedule. Consequently, operating ferries were compelled to berth and depart only during high tide, leading to delays in arrivals and congestion at the Kuah Passenger Ferry Terminal in Langkawi.
Previous Dredging Efforts and Their Limitations

To address sedimentation, the Marine Department of Malaysia (JLM) has previously undertaken dredging works. Between August 2018 and March 2019, JLM carried out dredging of a 5.6-kilometre navigation channel to a Chart Datum (CD) depth of 2.0 meters at a cost of RM13.8 million. While these periodic dredgings aimed to enhance the safety of ferry services and benefit local communities by mitigating flood risks, the ongoing nature of sedimentation indicates that these efforts, while beneficial, have not permanently resolved the issue.
Ongoing and Future Solutions for Sedimentation Control

In response to the recurring low tide incidents, immediate dredging works commenced on February 6, 2022, and were scheduled to conclude on February 22, 2022, implemented through emergency procurement. Furthermore, the Kuala Perlis Passenger Ferry Terminal Navigation Channel and Basin Dredging Work Project has been designated as a priority project under the 12th Malaysia Plan to conduct more comprehensive dredging. This involves deepening the basin and a 9 km-long navigation channel to a CD depth of four meters and a width of 70 meters. Concurrently, a study is underway by the Department of Drainage and Irrigation to explore more sustainable, long-term solutions for managing the sedimentation problem.

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What caused the Kuala Perlis ferry terminal to face low tide issues?

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