By: Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
IPOH, Oct 26 — Residents around Chemor are growing increasingly anxious as an unscheduled water disruption continues into its second day, leaving many struggling to cope with the situation.
In a statement, the Perak Water Board (LAP) said a sudden drop in water pressure was detected through its monitoring system in several areas, including Chemor Mutiara (Friday Night Market), Taman Megah, Chemor Impian, Chemor Sejahtera, Chemor Makmur, Desa Chemor Setia, Sri Kuang, Chepor Indah and Ulu Chepor Tambahan.
Preliminary investigations revealed a leak in the main 400mm Mild Steel pipeline supplying water to the affected areas.
LAP explained that the leak has been difficult to locate as it involves a long underground stretch, and the exact location has yet to be determined.
“The technical team is currently conducting leak detection using specialised equipment and continuous pressure monitoring to pinpoint the exact location before carrying out immediate repair works,” the statement read.
In the latest update, LAP’s operations team confirmed the discovery of a burst pipe in the Kantan industrial area.
However, repair work cannot proceed yet as the damaged section is located close to a gas pipeline and requires safety clearance from the relevant authorities.
A resident of RPT 10 Ulu Chepor, Sarah Abidin, 40, expressed disappointment over the delay in addressing the issue since Saturday.
“This is now the second day without water. We were told the source of the leak has been identified, but some say there are also underground leaks in several other spots.
“We just hope this issue can be resolved soon for the comfort of all residents,” she said.
To mitigate the impact, LAP has deployed three water tankers to supply affected areas including Kuala Kuang, Masjid Nur Ain Chemor Impian, and nearby neighbourhoods.
Meanwhile, the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Ipoh has also assisted by delivering water to selected locations, although the supply is only suitable for basic use such as washing and sanitation, not for drinking or cooking.
Emergency water distribution is also being carried out at the Petron Chepor Indah parking area for public convenience.
