El-Nino: 1 empangan pada tahap kritikal, 2 waspada

The National Water Service Commission (SPAN) continues to monitor the 49 main reservoirs that supply raw water to water treatment plants. One of these reservoirs, situated at Sungai Pagar in Labuan, is currently at a critical stage. Two others, Jus Reservoir in Melaka and Labong Reservoir in Johor, are in a cautionary stage. Nine reservoirs are under a warning stage, including Muda Reservoir and Ahning Reservoir in Kedah, as well as Upper Layang, Lower Layang, Lebam, Gunung Pulai 1, Gunung Pulai 2, Pontian Kechil in Johor, and Timah Tasoh Reservoir in Perlis.

According to SPAN, Timah Tasoh Reservoir, which has previously been at a critical stage, shows an improvement after receiving a small amount of rainfall and pumping water from the tank to the reservoir. Despite all the monitored LRA (Local Regulatory Authority) operating normally, SPAN does not rule out the possibility of power supply disruptions if the reservoir levels continue to decline. "SPAN does not rule out any risk of power supply disruptions if reservoir levels continue to show a downward trend," they stated.

SPAN, in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy, Water and Transformation (Petra), held an Emergency Working Committee and Readiness Meeting with all water supply operators on Wednesday. The meeting aimed to investigate the situation of raw water sources and strengthen preparedness and mitigation measures, especially focusing on reservoirs showing a declining trend or being in the cautionary, warning, warning and critical stages.

Measures being considered include optimizing the use of raw water, coordinating the operation of reservoirs and LRA, activating alternative sources, and monitoring water supply demand in high-risk areas. In case of further deterioration of raw water sources, supply cuts or reduction may be considered as a measure to manage demand, subject to the current need and approval of the minister.

SPAN stated that the monitoring and risk assessment will continue to be intensified to face the possibility of an El Nino phenomenon, taking into account weather conditions, reservoir level trends, raw water availability, and LRA operational capacity. "All mitigation measures will be implemented broadly based on the situation and risk level in each area," they added.