SG GOLOK DRYING UP
Dry spell has caused water level to drop significantly
The shallow water, however, has encouraged people, especially children from both sides of the border, to bathe in the river.
THE dry spell in Kelantan, which started two weeks ago, has caused the water level of Sungai Golok, which borders Malaysia and Thailand, to drop significantly.
A check in Rantau Panjang showed that a sandbar had formed in the middle of the river, causing problems for boat operators to conduct their daily activities.
A check in Kampung Jeram Perdah here found that the distance between Malaysia and Thailand had “shortened” as the river had been reduced to a 4m ditch.
As a result, people walk over to the neighbouring country.
Boat operator Din Mamat, 50, said the situation had forced boat operators to be more careful to avoid hitting woods or rocks in the shallow riverbed.
He said there were incidents of boats getting stuck, causing engine failure and the boats being towed to the riverbanks.
“The shallow water, however, has encouraged people, especially children from both sides of the border, to bathe in the river.
“If the water level continues to drop, there will be a carnival-like atmosphere, which had happened a few years ago. Some people had even set up stalls.”
A resident of Kampung Jeram Perdah, Ismail Awang, 60, said the dry weather was not good for boat operators as people could walk to the border.
“In the past, this area was a favourite spot for fishermen and anglers. But now, it is difficult for them to earn a living.”