Penang to seek more cloud seeding operations

BUTTERWORTH - Penang will continue to seek approval for more cloud seeding operations to induce rainfall and ensure raw water reserves in the Air Itam and Teluk Bahang dams near here reach 50 per cent.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the first operation carried out from May 2-4 was considered fruitful following rainfall in both areas although only at a minimal amount.

"The first wave of cloud seeding and rain at Teluk Bahang Dam was equivalent to the population's water supply for 3.5 days while the water supply obtained at the Air Itam Dam was equivalent to local use for one day.

"Although the amount is small, it really helped us prepare supplies so that clean water can continue to be distributed to users. We will request the help of the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) for future cloud seeding operations," he told reporters.

He was met after a visit to Package 12A at the Sungai Dua Water Treatment Plant (LRA) here which was also attended by Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) chief executive officer K.Pathmanathan.

On May 2, RMAF and the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) carried out cloud seeding operations in the catchment area of ​​the Teluk Bahang and Teluk Air Itam dams in Penang after raw water reserves in both dams decreased.

Meanwhile, Chow who is also PBAPP chairman said the state government through PBAPP will use different strategies to ensure sufficient water supply in the state, especially in the face of the current dry spell.

"The strategy is to use another source which is to take water from the Bukit Dumbar reservoir to be channelled to the Air Itam Dam.

"Through this method, even if the water level at the Air Itam Dam continues to decrease, at least it will drop little by little,” he added. - BERNAMA