KUCHING: The upgrading of the Batu Kitang water treatment plant is set to be completed within the first quarter of 2024, said Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi.

The Utility and Telecommunication Minister said the focus is particularly on fortifying the capacity of the Batu Kitang water treatment plant, presently at 780 Million Litres Daily (MLD), with a targeted upgrade to 884 Million Litres Daily (MLD).

“Once achieved, the upgraded capacity is expected to address the increasing water demand in Samarahan, specifically in Samarindah, Batu 7 area, Kampung Tanjung Parang, including Kampung Baru, and other areas under the Kuching Water Board.

“While anticipating the fulfilment of water demand by March next year, the board is simultaneously pursuing an additional 100 MLD increase in the Batu Kitang supply plant

“Combining this with another 800 MLD, the total capacity is projected to reach 984 MLD,” he said during the Kuching Water Board Excellent Service Award (APC) ceremony at the Hikmah Exchange Event Centre last night (Dec 1).

He said this is also anticipated to be a crucial solution to meet the escalating demand in Kuching city and its surrounding areas supplied with treated and clean water by the Kuching Water Board.

“The current capacity, although at 10 percent, falls short of the 30 percent deemed necessary for water supply projects in densely populated regions.

“Recognizing this, the government is actively involved, fostering awareness and facilitating water supply expansion beyond Kuching’s city limits,” he added.

In parallel, he said the Sarawak Government has approved a budget to replace and upgrade distribution pipes, addressing the wear and tear evident in the existing water supply system throughout Sarawak.

This effort includes the water supply system in Kuching City, aiming for an extensive overhaul starting next year.

Also present during the award is Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication (Utility) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, Batu Kitang assemblyman Lo Khere Chiang and Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap.

- New Sarawak Tribune, 2 Dec 2023

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