Julaihi chairing a coordination meeting on the repair works for the main pipeline at Batu 7 on Friday afternoon. – Photo by Ukas
MIRI (June 6): Residents in Miri and Sibuti have been urged not to panic over the upcoming water supply disruption caused by repair works on a major pipeline at Batu 7, Jalan Miri–Bintulu on June 10.
Sarawak Minister for Utility and Telecommunication, Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi, said the repair works are a planned measure following continuous technical monitoring which detected a minor leak along the main pipeline in the area.
He said the decision to carry out the repairs was made after the Hari Raya Aidiladha and Gawai Dayak celebrations to avoid disrupting festive preparations, while also ensuring the stability of the water supply system in Miri and surrounding areas.
“We have been monitoring the situation continuously as there were early signs of a minor leak at the location. Therefore, the repair works must be carried out in a scheduled and controlled manner.
“The repair works are expected to take approximately 12 hours to complete, followed by an additional 12 hours for the restoration process and stabilisation of water pressure in the affected areas,” he said.
He added that unstable ground conditions along the Pan Borneo Highway project alignment have been identified as one of the main factors contributing to the leakage of the major pipeline at the site.
According to him, the soft soil structure and ground movement in the area have affected the stability of the existing pipeline infrastructure.
In this regard, Julaihi urged the public not to panic over the water supply disruption as it is part of a scheduled repair operation.
“However, the restoration period may take longer in certain rural areas, including Beraya, Sibuti and Bekenu, depending on the condition of the system.
“The state government has prepared at least 18 water tankers, and the number is expected to be increased to between 27 and 28 tankers according to operational needs on the ground,” he said.
He added that several temporary water collection centres will be activated at strategic locations, including the Lambir Water Treatment Plant and other key areas around Miri for the convenience of consumers.
An operations secretariat centre will also be activated at the Lambir Water Treatment Plant to coordinate complaints, assistance and 24-hour operational monitoring involving Sarawak Water and related agencies.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to store sufficient water in advance and use it prudently throughout the disruption period.