Business as usual for express boats despite low water level

SIBU: Express boats are plying the waterways as usual despite the low water level along the upper reaches of the Rajang river.

Sarawak Rivers Board (SRB) Region II assistant controller Hatta Morshidi said there is no danger in terms of navigation even though the current water level is “very low”.

“The express boats are operating as normal with no disruption to their services even though the water level is very low.

“Navigation-wise, there is no danger but express boat skippers should exercise caution nevertheless,” he said when contacted yesterday on the situation along the upper reaches of the Rajang river in view of the current dry weather.

He advised express boat operators to ensure all safetyrelated equipments are in place and in working condition.

“For passengers, please be careful when embarking and disembarking from our facilities especially at the landing staircases, as it is a long way up the steps,” he said.

On Wednesday, Malaysian Meteorological Department Sarawak director Wong Teck Kiong had said it might take another week for Sarawak to experience rain, as a respite to the current ‘peak dry period' which is expected to last until late July or early next month.

He said areas in Sarawak most affected by the dry spell would be along the coast.