SIPITANG: Villagers are expressing growing concern about the frequent water supply disruptions, causing inconvenience during crucial times.
A villager from Kg Pantai Lama, who declined to be named, reported that supply had been cut off for the past several days.
He expressed frustration stating that while water rationing might be acceptable during a dry season, the current disruptions are unexpected during the rainy season.
“All the work we do at home is undone, for there is no supply of water,” he said.
This hardship is felt even more for those who do not have water storage in the tank. However, even if they have storage, it takes time for the supply to be restored.
Concerns were raised about the frequency of pipe damage caused by Pan Borneo contractor’s work and damage to the water supply plant.
He urged the Water Department to monitor contractors’ activities to prevent disruptions.
He also said they should develop an action plan, suggesting the deployment of water tank trucks to deliver water to affected villagers.
“They shouldn’t ignore consumers’ requests for fresh water supply for more than three days,” he said.
He said the B40 group is struggling to afford drinking water, especially during school and baby care.
Another consumer, Jimmy from Kg Padang Berempah, shared similar disappointment with frequent water cuts affecting the local school’s reliance on water tanks.
“Water supply is inconsistent and, at times, unavailable. Unfortunately, it seems the water department is indifferent to people’s problems, leaving villagers with no choice but to purchase bottled water for their daily needs,” he said.
Jimmy said the villagers are calling on Sindumin Assemblyman Datuk Dr. Yusof Yaccob and Sipitang Member of Parliament Datuk Matbali Musah to act and ensure water is supplied directly to all the affected villagers.
A Daily Express reader, Johnny in Kuala Penyu, is also facing a similar problem – supply has been cut since Thursday, burdening the villagers in their efforts to obtain water.
“The Minister should look at the needs of the people because water is a basic daily need,” he said.
Johnny said that consumers in this area solely depend on the water supply from the Padas River in Beaufort. Some villagers even have to obtain water from the water plant.
Johnny said if the reliance is solely on rain, and considering the limited duration, the water supply would inevitably run out.
