Pipeline leaks, works along 35km network disrupt water supply in Stumbin, Tanjung Bijat

Flushing works being carried out to prevent air lock along the water pipe network from Sri Aman to Stumbin.

By DayakDaily Team

SRI AMAN, March 17: Issues along the pipeline alignment, including pipe leakages and ongoing maintenance works, have been identified as the main causes of frequent water supply disruptions affecting Stumbin and Tanjung Bijat, with supply delivered through a 35-kilometre water network from Bayai Water Treatment Plant (WTP) to Stumbin WTP.

The Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) said field inspections and technical monitoring confirmed that weaknesses along the pipeline route, particularly in areas undergoing development, have contributed to recurring interruptions in water distribution.

“The situation has been further compounded by rising water demand in the affected, which now exceeds the production capacity of the Stumbin WTP, currently able to produce only about 0.65 million litres per day (MLD).

“As a result, additional supply of 2 MLD has been channelled from Bayai WTP via the Bayai Storage Tank to support the system,” the department said in a statement today.

JBALB also noted that a road widening project in Sri Aman town, implemented by the Public Works Department (JKR), has affected a significant portion of the pipeline alignment.

Parts of the 35km pipeline transporting water from Bayai to Stumbin run within the construction zone, exposing the system to potential disruptions.

“Any pipe leak incidents during construction, or valve closures required for repair and interconnection works, may impact the stability of the existing water supply system,” JBALB added.

Double air valve installation on diversion pipe in hilly areas within the Jalan Astana construction site and construction of alternative diversion pipeline in Peace Park to enhance distribution stability.

To address the issue, the department has stepped up mitigation efforts, including continuous inspections along the pipeline, especially in active construction areas, and thorough checks on valve conditions and operations. Faulty valves are being replaced, while damaged pipes are undergoing immediate repairs.

Among additional measures taken are the installation of Double Air Valves (DAV) on diversion pipes in hilly areas within the Jalan Astana construction site to prevent air lock, as well as the construction of an alternative diversion pipeline in the Peace Park area to enhance distribution stability.

JBALB has also deployed water tankers to deliver supply to affected communities and established Centralised Water Collection Centres at strategic locations to ease access for residents.

The department expressed appreciation for the patience and cooperation of consumers during the restoration period, reiterating its commitment to stabilising and strengthening the water supply system in Sri Aman.

Consumers can obtain updates through JBALB Sarawak’s official channels or contact its call centre at 082-262211 for enquiries and complaints. — DayakDaily