RM129m allocation for water supply projects approved

AN allocation of RM129 million for water supply projects which was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak during the Tanjung Datu by- election earlier this year has been approved.

Assistant Minister of Water Supply Datuk Liwan Lagang said the project comprises the laying of water mains to Lundu-Pandan, Biawak and Sematan as agreed by the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development. The project will be divided into two phases.

“The Rural Water Supply Project to Bau/Lundu/Sematan districts under Kuching Division (Phase A) consisting of pipe laying to LunduPandan area is currently under the tender documentation stage.

“For Phase B, mainly pipelaying works to Biawak and Sematan areas could only be carried out at a later stage due to the ongoing construction of the Pan Borneo Highway,” he said in response to Datuk Henry Harry Jinep’s ( BN-Tasik Biru) question on the matter yesterday.

On the allocation of RM40 million proposed in the state Budget 2018, which does not cover water supply to Bau, Liwan said this was due to the state government focusing on the state grid connecting every major town and district.

“The RM40 million allocation for the laying of new pipes from Batu Kitang Water Treatment Plant to Bau Regional Reservoir No. 2 cannot be implemented in 2018 yet.”

Nevertheless, he said the project has been put up for midterm review of the 11th Malaysia Plan under the new project list for consideration.

On the frequent water supply disruption in Bau allegedly caused by Pan Borneo Highway contractors, Liwan said various initiatives had been taken to address the issue including joint site inspection prior to road works as well as frequent site inspection during construction.

“In cases where damages have occurred, the relevant agencies will ensure that the necessary repair works are carried out in a timely manner and the restoration of water supply to consumers is carried out in the shortest time possible.”