BUTTERWORTH: The water deal with the Perak government must be expedited to ensure Penang’s long-term security, says Chow Kon Yeow.
The Penang Chief Minister said water treatment plants could be built anywhere provided there are raw water supplies.
He said the Perak water deal is the ideal long-term measure for the state in its effort for water security.
"The Perak government and the related ministry must work on this matter. We hope this can be expedited soon for the long-term measure of water security in the state," he told reporters after visiting preparations to face the scheduled water disruptions at Juru voluntary fire brigade station on Tuesday (Jan 2).
He said it would be good for Penang if the project could be completed in six to eight years, but it would solely depend on the Perak government and the ministry.
He said if the project can be inked or an agreement can be made within this one year, it would be a significant breakthrough, as Penang has been wanting to get water from its neighbour.
Last year, Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad confirmed that the state government had agreed to sell treated water to Penang following an agreement between the state secretaries.
The matter was agreed upon before initiating the application process for an allocation from the Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Ministry to construct a water treatment plant in Kerian, Perak.
He had said the plant is expected to address irrigation challenges in Kerian and facilitate water supply for a new high-tech industrial area planned for development on a 400ha site within the district.
Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, said he was informed that both states had indicated their readiness to discuss the water deal.
Earlier in the press conference, Chow said Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) would rent 10 jumbo water tankers in preparation for the water disruptions.
He said the jumbo tankers, with a capacity of 20,0000 to 30,000 litres, would be deployed to refill water in all static tanks placed at public locations.
He said PBA would also deploy eight lorry tankers to the state's affected hospitals and dialysis centres.
He said Seberang Prai City Council would deploy seven lorry tankers to locations in the mainland of Penang, which would be announced later.
Chow admitted that the scheduled water disruptions from Jan 10 to 14 are challenging but urged the public to let the authorities focus their attention and energy on making it a success.
