PERAK is taking steps to face the El Nino phenomenon which is expected to last until early 2027.
Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said various agencies, including the Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), Drainage and Irrigation Department and Perak Water Board (LAP), have been instructed to prepare for any issues that might impact the people.
“The state will get regular reports on the weather as well as water levels at the Bukit Merah and Sultan Azlan Shah dams.
“The Department of Environment will monitor the air quality index while LAP has also taken proactive mitigation steps to optimise operations of its water treatment plan, to mobilise mobile water tanks and pumps, as well as to look for alternative sources,” he said in reply to Dr Najihatussalehah Ahmad (PN-Bota) during the question and answer session at the Perak state assembly sitting in Bangunan Perak Darul Ridzuan, Ipoh, yesterday.
“LAP has also submitted a request for a RM2.4mil allocation from the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry for relevant mitigation plans,” he added.
Saarani said the state would also focus on efficient water distribution through its existing irrigation channels and mobile pumps to affected farmers.
“If things get critical, the state disaster management committee will work with MetMalaysia and National Disaster Management Agency for cloud seeding operations,” he added.
Saarani said the Perak Health Department established four main strategies in response to a heatwave – running targeted health advocacy programmes, conducting daily surveillance, activating its Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre and optimising health facility operations.
“Hospitals and health clinics will get priority for water supplies, including water reserve tanks for a minimum of 48 hours,” he said.
To an additional question by Wong May Ing (PH-Pantai Remis) on concerns of rising seawater due to El Nino impacting coastal areas, Saarani said the state would discuss with the relevant agencies on the measures to be taken.
