Penang faces water shortage, residents urged to conserve

Air Itam and Teluk Bahang dams have critically low water levels due to a combination of low rainfall, high water consumption

Air Itam dam, one of the water supply dams that provide water on Penang Island, is reported to be currently at 29.7% capacity. – Scoop pic, August 14, 2024

GEORGE TOWN – The Penang Water Supply Corporation has issued an urgent call for water conservation in areas served by the Air Itam and Teluk Bahang dams on Penang Island. 

According to a statement from the corporation today, both dams are currently experiencing critically low water levels, with the Air Itam dam at 29.7% capacity and the Teluk Bahang dam at 26.4%. This situation is attributed to a combination of low rainfall and high water consumption in the region.

Residents in the following areas – Air Hitam, Farlim, Teluk Bahang, Batu Ferringhi, Tg Bungah and other nearby areas are urged to reduce their water usage.

At the same time, Penang Water Supply Corporation chief executive officer Datuk K. Pathmanathan emphasised the need for immediate action. 

“The dams can only be refilled with significant rainfall, but the volume of rainfall expected in September is uncertain,” he said. 

He urged consumers to conserve water to avoid a potential shortage. 

“If consumers reduce water usage by 10%, the reserves of these dams may be extended by 10%,” he explained. 

“If consumption is reduced by 20%, the remaining reserves may last 20% longer.”
Penang Water Supply Corporation encourages residents to visit their website for easy water-saving tips. – August 14, 2024