A TOTAL of RM1.5 million was allocated for the Groundwater Production Well Development and Pressurisation System Pilot Project at the Gunung Semanggol Water Treatment Plant in Kerian, said Perak Infrastructure, Energy, Water and Public Transport Committee chairman Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin.

Nizar said the construction of the two wells – each over 100m deep and capable of producing 2.5 million litres daily – began in September 2022 and was completed in March.

“The construction was by the Natural Resources, Environment, and Climate Change Ministry in collaboration with the Department of Minerals and Geoscience, while assistance in water treatment was by the Perak Water Board.

“The department conducted studies, geological and hydrogeological mapping, geophysical tests, and exploration well construction for assessing groundwater feasibility,” he said after officiating the handing over ceremony in Bagan Serai today.

The project was initiated under the 11th Malaysia Plan with an allocation of RM33 million, involving 19 plants nationwide.

“The analysis conducted found an extra 106.1 million litres of water per day. Groundwater development holds great potential,” he said.

The wells served as an alternative method to provide water, especially in Kerian, Larut Matang and Selama areas.

It was a solution to support existing sources from rivers and address supply issues in the area, especially during El Nino Phenomenon, he said. – Bernama, November 6, 2023.