Kuching Water Board commended for swift action in sealing cracked pipe on Jln Tun Jugah

Kong (third left) with KWB contractors and personnel at the site of the burst water pipe on Jalan Tun Jugah.

KUCHING, Jan 24: Kuching Water Board (KWB) has received praise for their prompt response in addressing a burst water pipe on Jalan Tun Jugah, effectively preventing a more severe situation from unfolding.

According to Michael Kong Feng Nian, special assistant to Sarawak Democratic Action Party (DAP) Chong Chieng Jen, when KWB shut down five valves from RH Plaza to Brighton Square for its contractors to undertake urgent rectification work yesterday evening (Jan 23), they found that the water pipe, buried seven metres underground, had a one-metre-long crack.

“This unprecedented crack posed a challenge as immediate welding wasn’t feasible. Given the size of the crack, a pre-fabricated steel solution is required.

“A team of experts and welders were approached to assess the site to determine the size of the steel and devising the quickest welding approach.

“As a temporary measure, ‘tiger clamps’ were swiftly installed to seal the crack, allowing the reopening of valves late last night (Jan 23) and the resumption of normal water supply for residents by morning,” he said in a statement issued today.

Kong continued: “We acknowledge KWB’s efforts in responding to this situation. Their swift action to install ‘tiger clamps’ and their work through the night, from 3.30pm to 12.30am, helped avert a more serious crisis.

“Our appreciation also extends to the KWB personnel who diligently managed water tankers, ensuring uninterrupted access to drinking water in the affected areas.”

The DAP representative also noted that soil erosion occurred during KWB’s contractors’ rectification work, resulting in the pedestrian pavement partially collapsing.

He added that the situation showed the urgency of the repair, as further delays could potentially risk soil erosion affecting parts of Jalan Tun Jugah.

“As we await the installation of the pre-fabricated steel, KWB will keep the public informed about any necessary valve shutdowns and potential water outages. We recommend that residents prepare by ensuring adequate water storage,” he added. — DayakDaily