IPOH: Illegal water siphoning by durian growers in Sauk has disrupted supply to treatment plants, leaving at least 13 villages facing shortages since early March.
Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said farmers in Chegar Galah had installed unauthorised pipes to draw water from reservoirs for their orchards, affecting thousands of residents.
He said enforcement action had been initiated following discussions with the Perak Water Board after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri holidays.
“I believe action has been taken today or will be carried out by tomorrow to remove the illegal pipes,” he told a press conference after presenting Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia reference books to nine pupils under the Cikgu Saarani Tuition initiative at his office here on Monday (April 6).
Saarani reminded farmers that drawing water directly from reservoirs is illegal and warned that action could be taken against offenders.
“If farmers or durian growers need water for their orchards, they should obtain it from the water treatment plant, not the source itself.
“If we do not act, more will install such pipes, worsening the shortage at treatment plants,” he said.
Separately, Saarani said the state government would assess the need for an economic stimulus package to cushion the impact of the crisis in the Middle East.
“We will take into account the current situation before deciding whether to hold a special meeting.
“We understand that some form of stimulus will help the people, especially farmers and entrepreneurs,” he said.
He added that the state had also received a circular from the Chief Secretary to the Government on studying the feasibility of work from home arrangements for certain departments.
“The State Secretary is conducting a study and will call department heads for discussions,” he said.
