IPOH: Cloud seeding operations will be carried out at the Bukit Merah Dam in Kerian from July 29 to 31 due to the receding water levels.
State Rural Development, Plantation, Agriculture and Food Industry Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Zolkafly Harun said that dates had been scheduled by the Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia).
He said the operation was important not only for domestic water supply but also for irrigating agricultural areas, especially rice fields in Kerian.
"The operation dates were adjusted due to various factors, including national-level programmes that restrict the use of aircraft for such purposes.
"Ideally, we want to proceed promptly, but the timing must align with MetMalaysia's schedule, which we cannot control," Zolkafly said after attending the Ziarah Kasih Tani and Promotion of Perak Agricultural Products programe today.
On July 3, the state government established a special committee to devise short-term solutions to address the declining water levels at Tasik Bukit Merah.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said committee members included representatives from the State Land and Mines Office, Drainage and Irrigation Department, and Public Works Department.
(https://www.nst.com.my/amp/news/nation/2024/07/1071847/perak-form-commit...)
Yesterday, state Infrastructure, Energy Water and Public Transport Committee chairman Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin said the water level at the Bukit Merah Dam had risen slightly, though it remained insufficient to resume irrigation supply to the agricultural sector.
Up to July 16, the water level was recorded at about 6.3m, compared with 6.09m on June 28.