GEORGE TOWN: Perbadanan Bekalan Air Pulau Pinang (PBAPP) has ramped up treated water production to meet higher-than-usual demand across Penang, which has persisted since the start of July.

PBAPP chief executive officer Datuk K. Pathmanathan said water demand rose by 4.6% over the first 18 days of the month, surpassing normal seasonal increases.

He said average daily consumption hit 948 million litres per day (MLD), significantly above the average 906 MLD in July last year.

“This is an unprecedented increase for the first half of July. Our operations team is working around the clock to sustain higher production at all nine water treatment plants,” he said in a statement on Monday (July 21)

To keep pace, PBAPP ramped up output at the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant, its largest facility, from 1,005 MLD in June to 1,052 MLD so far in July.

“We are constantly fine-tuning output at each plant and pumping station to ensure steady supply across all regions, including Seberang Perai and Penang Island.

“Despite the ramped-up efforts, PBAPP continues to receive complaints of low water pressure and supply issues from certain areas, including Balik Pulau, Bayan Baru, Bayan Lepas, Teluk Kumbar, and Batu Maung.

“We are aware of these complaints and are doing our best to resolve them as quickly as possible,” said Pathmanathan.

He said these localised issues are likely linked to the sudden spike in consumption and hydraulic limitations.”

He assured that Penang’s overall water supply remains stable, and there are no plans for rationing at this time.

Pathmanathan urged the public to conserve water

“Every household and business has a role to play. Use water wisely — it is a precious resource, ” he added.