MERADONG: The water supply issue along Jalan KJD in Bintangor is nearing resolution as work has commenced on upgrading the existing pipeline to improve water flow and supply stability in the area.
Meradong assemblyman Datuk Ding Kuong Hiing said the project, approved by the Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication, involves replacing old pipes from the Bintangor Highway junction to the booster station.
This will increase the transmission capacity from Bayong to the elevated reservoir at Batu 13, Jalan KJD.
He said the project is expected to be completed within 12 months, but his office will urge the Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) to speed up the work so residents can receive adequate water supply earlier than scheduled.
“This project is expected to fully resolve the long-standing water supply problems faced by longhouse communities along Jalan KJD,” he said during a dialogue session with community leaders at the Meradong District Office recently.
Ding also explained that the main issue stems from differing pipe capacities along critical sections.
“The 600mm pipe only reaches the highway junction near the Bintangor High Bridge. From that junction to the booster station, the pipe remains at 280mm in diameter,” he said.
As a result, water flow to the KJD area cannot be channelled at an optimal rate.
Ding also expressed his appreciation to JBALB Sarikei for carrying out several improvements recently, including short-term measures such as using ‘direct pumping’ to help channel water to affected longhouses.
In addition, JBALB has committed to delivering clean water to longhouses that have yet to receive stable supply while awaiting completion of the upgrading project.
It is understood that around 20 to 30 longhouses along Jalan KJD have long been affected by low water pressure and insufficient supply.
