A large number of residents in Kuala Lumpur appear prepared for impending scheduled water supply disruptions, as many of them have already accepted that having dry taps is part and parcel of living in this city.

 

Visits to Pandan, Ampang, Wangsa Maju and Kuchai Lama this morning revealed that the water supply in these areas were not disrupted yet, but most people interviewed said they were already prepared for it.

 

"We are used to it," said Pandan Jaya resident Alex Chan, adding that most residents in the low cost flat that he resides in had already made preparations since the last major disruption in July last year.

 

"Many of us now own water tanks. We started to fill them up since Syabas issued the notices (four days ago)."

 

Pandan Jaya was one of the worst affected area when the Wangsa Maju water pump station broke down a few times in 2012. The last incident occurred in August.

 

Over at Kuchai Lama, businesses were seen operating as usual and there are no signs of water service disruptions.

 

"We still have access to water. But we have stored some just in case. There are pails of water and tanks for our office staff," said Azrizam Kusin, a graphics designer.

Why 13 hours needed

 

Apart from businesses and residential areas, the row of embassies along Jalan Ampang are also among those who are supposed to be affected by the disruptions.

 

However, both the British and Russian embassies have confirmed that water supply is currently normal but sufficient preparations have been made.

 

Meanwhile, M Rajan, an engineer with experience in the water industry, said he could understand why the water supply disruption must take place, but felt that the five day period needed to fully restore services was too long.

 

"From what I understand, they are not just fixing pipes, but electrical equipment as well... There are many experts in Syabas. I'm sure they took many things into consideration and have come out with contingencies," he said.

 

He said that 13 hours (from 8am to 9pm today) needed by Syabas to complete the maintenance was not too long. He said each step - drying the pumps, cleaning it and refilling - takes several hours.

 

Water services disruption is scheduled to begin at 8am today. The restoration process is scheduled to begin at 9pm tonight and the restoration of supply will be done in stages .  

 

Syabas said that the restoration process may take up to five days.

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