SPAOH: The Bukit Saban constituency is ramping up preparations to tackle worsening water shortages as Sarawak braces for prolonged hot and dry weather, with a possible El Nino spell expected from October.
Deputy Premier and Bukit Saban assemblyman, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, said ensuring adequate water supply was now a top priority to safeguard residents’ basic needs during the dry spell.
He said immediate measures were being coordinated with Betong MP Datuk Dr Richard Rapu, Bukit Saban community leaders and relevant agencies following a special dialogue held on Wednesday (Sept 2).
The meeting involved the Betong Division Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB), Betong Division Social Welfare Department (JKM), Resident’s Office and District Office to coordinate measures to address water shortages.
“Water supply appears to be affected now. So, we need to be prepared for the continued hot and dry conditions,” Uggah said in his Facebook post after chairing the meeting.
He added that water would be delivered within 12 hours of receiving requests, with mineral water and vehicles also made available for distribution to affected areas.
“For welfare assistance, we are ensuring there is sufficient water supply, bottled (mineral) water, as well as vehicles to deliver the water.”
Meanwhile, the Betong Division JKM has so far distributed 45,000 boxes of mineral water to residents affected by water shortages.
JBALB Betong is also planning to supply raw water to several areas following the closure of the Lichok and Spaoh Water Treatment Plants.
Several lorries and personnel will be mobilised to ensure the water reaches affected residents.
Uggah said the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee was also closely monitoring the water situation statewide through its operations room, which identifies areas facing shortages and coordinates assistance accordingly.
