Brunei's water issue: Water is safe despite discolouration, says Public Works Department - The Star Online

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Sept 15 (Borneo Buletin/ANN): The Public Works Department (JKR) has assured residents in affected areas that discoloured or murky water is safe for consumption.

“The presence of manganese in water can lead to discolouration and the release of sediments over a period of time,” said the JKR.

Affected residents are advised to flush out the piping systems by turning on individual taps, until the water runs clear. They are also recommended to boil the water first before consuming it.

According to the JKR, the issue often occurs after a period of prolonged rainfall, causing some areas in the raw water catchment area of the Tutong River to experience flooding.

This is followed by a decrease in rainfall, causing stagnant floodwater to flow into the river and the water quality to turn darker than usual, from minerals (especially manganese) and soil flowing downstream through the surface-runoff.

Manganese is found naturally on the surface of water or in the soil. This year, the manganese content in local rivers, especially the Tutong River, has soared above the Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation’s (JASTRe) standard content limits for river water.

This sharp increase is due to several factors, such as the flow of rainwater from upstream into the river, as well as development and excavation activities.

After being treated at the plant, the processed water is sent to tanks, but the high content of manganese can result in a chemical reaction during the...

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