KOTA KINABALU: The ongoing water crisis in Sabah has stabilised somewhat but rationing will continue as and when required, says state Works Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya.

       The Deputy Chief Minister III said the state, through the Water Department, has applied necessary measures to resolve water disruption issues since the end of May for areas in Putatan, Penampang, Kota Kinabalu and Tuaran.

       “Some measures were to shut down direct pipelines that were not supposed to be there so that the department would be able to refill water tanks and ensure supply to consumers,” he said at the groundbreaking ceremony for a mini stadium in Putatan on Wednesday (July 26).

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       On reports of water shortages in residential areas, among others, he said sometimes the problems arose because of the respective managements.

       “It could be that the management of these apartments or residential areas are not able to maintain their water pumps and pipes... These are also issues we need to look into,” added Shahelmey, who is Putatan MP.

       He said those experiencing water disruption problems can contact him directly with the exact location so that he can forward the details to the Water Department.

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       He said the problems and countermeasures varied from one place to another, which is why the exact location is needed in reporting supply disruptions.

       As for reports of water theft continuing amid the ongoing supply problems, he said authorities checked and verified every claim received because legal action could only be taken with facts and evidence.

       "Yes, we get reports of housing areas and businesses stealing water supply but we need to check and verify before acting," he said.

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       Regarding the ongoing salty water problem in Sandakan district, he said the reading continues to go down by the day but it could be that there is still salt residue in water tanks.

       “Everyday, I get a report on the declining level of salinity but there may still be remnants of the salty water in the water tanks, so we need to continue monitoring,” said Shahelmey.