Illegal Water Use by Durian Farmers Disrupts Supply to 13 Villages in Perak
IPOH, April 6 — Unauthorised water extraction by durian farmers has been identified as the main cause of prolonged water supply disruptions affecting thousands of residents in Mukim Chegar Galah, Kuala Kangsar, for over a month.
Perak Menteri Besar Saarani Mohamad said investigations found that 34 farmers had been siphoning water directly from the catchment area of the Sauk Water Treatment Plant without approval, leading to a significant drop in water levels.
This reduction, he said, limited the amount of water available for processing by the Perak Water Board.
He explained that the shortage was initially attributed to natural causes, but further investigation revealed that unauthorised water extraction was the actual source of the problem.
“At first we thought it was due to low water levels, but later found that there were individuals taking water illegally from the source,” he said.
Prolonged Disruption Affects Residents
The situation has disrupted water supply to 13 villages, leaving residents struggling to access clean water for daily use.
Saarani said the prolonged disruption has placed significant strain on affected communities and requires immediate resolution.
Authorities Take Enforcement Action
To address the issue, the Perak Water Resources Management Board has been instructed to take enforcement action, including dismantling illegal piping systems used by the farmers.
He stressed that extracting water from regulated sources without authorisation is an offence and must be dealt with firmly.
Farmers, he said, should obtain water through proper channels instead of directly tapping into the catchment supply.
Risk of Escalation Highlighted
Saarani warned that failure to curb the activity could result in more individuals engaging in similar practices, worsening the water shortage.
He expressed confidence that enforcement measures will help restore water levels and stabilise supply.
Education Support Initiative Expanded
In a separate development, he announced that 63,303 copies of additional SPM reference books will be distributed to students across the state this year.
The initiative, funded with approximately RM1 million, aims to support students who require additional academic assistance in preparing for their examinations.
-wilayah.com.my
