GEORGE TOWN: The sedimentation problem that caused shallowness and narrowing of the Kuala Sungai Pinang and Kuala Jalan Baru channels in Balik Pulau has no impact on the catch in the area, the state assembly was told on Nov 20.
State Agrotechnology, Food Security and Cooperative Development Committee chairman Fahmi Zainol said that although the Irrigation and Drainage Department acknowledged the recurring sedimentation problem, it only complicates passage for local fishermen's vessels.
"Based on the data that we received, the problem has not affected their daily catch," Fahmi said in reply to a question from Muhamad Kasim (PN- Teluk Bahang )
Fahmi said that based on the data provided by the Fisheries Department, the catch by fishermen on the island increased from 17,423.49 metric tonnes in 2021 to 19,705.99 metric tonnes in 2022.
He said that to alleviate the sedimentation issues, the state government, through the Drainage and Irrigation Department, has appointed a contractor to carry out dredging and remove silt, drums, and sand beds.
Fahmi said these works were completed in November 2023.
He said that among the works to alleviate the problem were the river deepening and repair in Pantai Acheh, Sungai Pinang, and other related tasks in the south-west district.
He said the work began on May 5, 2023, and was completed on July 31, 2023. The total cost amounted to RM89,900.00.
"Additionally, a boat engine puller worth RM20,000 was placed at the jetty in 2020 to aid fishermen in that area.
"Dredging work and the removal of silt and sand beds at the estuary of Kuala Jalan Baru were conducted on Oct 11 2023, and completed on Nov 1 2023.
"The cost incurred for these works amounted to RM19,950.00," he said.
Fahmi added that the Department told him that tidal phenomena frequently affect the estuarine area.
He said this condition leads to ongoing issues with silt, drums, and sand beds in that area.
He said that as part of long-term planning, the state government will conduct dredging works in the estuary annually and based on the current needs.
