KOTA KINABALU: Water supply recovery efforts in Tawau have begun as the Northern Water Treatment Plant (WTP) gradually resumes operations following an improvement in raw water quality.
The Tawau Water Department announced on Monday afternoon (Oct 26) that the intake from Sungai Tawau has met treatment standards after recent rainfall, allowing the plant to restart in stages.
However, authorities warned that full supply restoration across affected areas will take time while the distribution network stabilises.
"Consumers are advised to use water prudently during the recovery phase," the department said in a statement. "Restoration times will vary depending on location and elevation."
The district has endured three to four weeks of water disruptions caused by a prolonged dry spell that degraded raw water quality and lowered river levels.
The crisis prompted the Sabah Cabinet last week to order emergency water tanker deliveries to affected neighbourhoods.
The department assured the public that plant operations and water safety are being continuously monitored, thanking consumers for their patience throughout the disruption.
