MIRI: The implementation of two high-impact water supply projects worth around RM266 million is currently being carried out in efforts to improve the infrastructure and water supply system in Miri Division.
According to Minister of Utilities and Telecommunication Datuk Julaihi Narawi, these water supply projects are planned by the Sarawak government through his ministry and the implementation agency – Sarawak Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB) to accommodate the growing demand for water supply in this division.
The proposed Miri water supply development phase 2 for Miri Division, costing about RM266 million, is fully funded by the Sarawak government.
It involves the construction of a new raw water main system from Batang Baram to Sungai Bakong and two new raw water intakes as well as the installation of twin submarine pipelines and underground cables.
The project, which is expected to be completed in July this year, will increase the production capacity of the raw water supply from 180 million litres to 300 million litres to meet the demand for clean water supply in Miri city until the year 2030.
The second project – a proposed 5 million litres high ground tank and upgrading of pumping system at Bukit Song Booster Station, which is still in the construction phase, plays an important part for the improvement of the existing water supply system in the Bekenu and Beluru areas.
The entire construction cost is worth RM40 million which involves the construction of a new booster pump station with a capacity of 3 million litres, the construction of a reservoir tank with a capacity of 5 million litres, the construction of a 3 million litre capacity high-level tank in Bekenu Town and the installation of a new pipeline along 31km.
Julaihi said, once these projects are completed, it will increase the capacity of the clean water supply system to users in Bekenu and Beluru in addition to resolving the water supply issue in the area.
In addition to improving the existing water supply system, these projects are also expected to boost the socio-economic status of the local community and spearhead more sustainable economic growth as well as guarantee a better quality of life for the residents of Miri Division.
