BUTTERWORTH: The Penang government will discuss possible assistance for nearly 20 households affected by a major pipe burst in Kampung Sungai Lokan on Monday night.
State Infrastructure Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the state would first assess the damage and discuss the matter with the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) and other relevant authorities.
"We will discuss this with PBAPP and the relevant parties to see how we can help the affected residents.
"We understand the damage caused, but we need to look into the matter, including the legal aspects, before determining what assistance can be provided," he said.
Zairil said the state government could not commit to assistance or compensation until the circumstances surrounding the incident and the extent of the damage had been examined.
The pipe burst sent water and thick mud into nearly 20 homes, forcing residents to scramble in the dark as water rose to knee-level. Furniture, electrical appliances and personal belongings were damaged within minutes.
Affected villagers have urged PBAPP and the relevant authorities to investigate the incident and consider assistance or compensation for their losses.
Zairil said further discussions with PBAPP and local authorities would determine the next course of action.
Meanwhile, PBAPP has restored water supply to about 126,440 consumers in Seberang Perai Utara, the south-west and north-east districts following an unscheduled interruption caused by the burst pipeline.
The incident was detected at 11.30pm on Monday when a burst 300mm pipe connected to a 1,350mm main pipeline caused flooding in the village.
PBAPP temporarily shut down the larger pipeline to carry out repairs. The pipeline supplies treated water from the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant to Penang island through twin submarine pipelines in Butterworth.
The shutdown reduced the volume of treated water supplied to the island, affecting about 130,790 registered consumers who experienced low pressure or a complete disruption to their water supply. Those affected included factories in the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone.
PBAPP activated its emergency response plan and completed repairs at 4pm yesterday. As at 7am today, supply had returned to normal for 96.67 per cent of affected consumers.
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