BUTTERWORTH: A burst pipeline in Kampung Lokan, Seberang Prai Utara, has disrupted water supply to 130,790 consumers across Penang.
The pipeline burst at 11.30pm last night, causing flooding in the village and affecting a larger main pipeline.
Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) shut down the main pipeline at 2.38am to carry out emergency repairs.
The shutdown temporarily reduced the volume of treated water pumped from the Sungai Dua water treatment plant to Penang island's twin submarine pipelines in Butterworth.
Consumers in the affected areas of Seberang Prai Utara, the southwest and northeast districts are experiencing low water pressure or complete water supply interruptions.
Areas affected include Penaga, Teluk Air Tawar, Island Glades, Bayan Lepas and Penang International Airport.
PBAPP chief executive officer Datuk K. Pathmanathan said the utility had activated its Emergency Response Protocol to restore water supply in stages.
"Repair teams began welding works at 2.30pm, with works scheduled for completion by 8.35pm tonight," he said.
Consumers can check PBAPP's Facebook page for updates on the recovery.
The pipeline burst flooded nearly 20 homes in Kampung Sungai Lokan with water and thick mud.
Residents scrambled in the dark as water rose to knee level, damaging household furniture, electrical appliances and personal belongings within minutes.
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