Which agency manages Bukit Merah compared with other Perak dams?

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The Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) Manages Bukit Merah Reservoir, Distinct from Other Perak Dams Managed by the Perak Water Board

The Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) is responsible for the management of the Bukit Merah Reservoir. This is in contrast to other significant water storage facilities in Perak, such as the Air Kuning dam located in Taiping and the Sultan Azlan Shah dam in Ipoh, which fall under the purview of the Perak Water Board. This distinction highlights different operational and administrative responsibilities for water resource management across the state.
Bukit Merah Reservoir's Critical Role

The Bukit Merah Reservoir plays a vital role in the Kerian district, supplying water to over 22,000 hectares of rice fields. Beyond its agricultural importance, it also serves as a primary source of drinking water for more than 200,000 residents. Furthermore, the reservoir's capacity extends to meeting industrial water demands in areas like Kamunting, Taiping, underscoring its multifaceted contribution to the region's economy and population.
Water Level Status and Management Oversight

As of March 26, the water level at the Bukit Merah dam had reached 7.56 meters, placing it at the alert level. While this indicates a concern, the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) noted that rainfall within the catchment area was contributing to an improvement in the water level. The normal operational level for the dam is recorded at 8.69 meters, providing a benchmark for assessing water availability.
Historical Context of Drought Conditions

The current situation at Bukit Merah dam evokes memories of a severe drought experienced in 2016, which was attributed to the El Nino phenomenon. During that period, the dam's water level dropped to below 6 meters, leaving only 14% of its capacity despite a substantial catchment area of 480 square kilometers. This historical event led DID to cease water releases for irrigation of plantations and rice fields, demonstrating the potential impact of prolonged dry spells on water resource allocation.

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Which agency manages Bukit Merah compared with other Perak dams?

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