Residents left high and dry by water cut
The Star 16/2/2005

THE 326 families occupying Block D, Jalan PJS1/52, Taman Petaling Utama, most of them Indian, were outraged when they found out that taps were dry on Thaipusam day.  

“We couldn't prepare properly in the morning before we headed for prayers at Batu Caves.  

“And when we returned after the procession and stair-climbing, all we wanted were some thirst quenchers and cool showers but we couldn't have that,” said resident Jeevaa Mohan.  

He said the occupants had to travel to friends and relatives' places, some as far as Klang, to have showers while others had to carry buckets of water up the 11-storey flat.  

According to Taman Medan assemblyman Ab Wahab Ibrahim, the main water meter was removed by Puas as the developer had failed to settle an outstanding payment of about RM58,000.  

“It is not a proper time to disconnect the water supply as most of the occupants are observing this festival. Even if they want to take action against errant payers, they should just cut the supply to those families who haven't paid,” he said.  

He added that both the developer and occupants were responsible for the incident.  

“The developer has its shortcomings such as sewerage and cleanliness problems and should always discuss with residents on remedial suggestions.  

“The residents, on the other hand, should give their full co-operation including settling bills promptly,” he added.  

The water supply was restored at 3pm.  

In a statement, the developer Peter's Brickworks Sdn Bhd explained that the water supply was supplied through a bulk meter from Puas, with the water then being diverted to individual sub-meters for the residents.  

According to the statement, the developer claimed that not all the residents paid their water bills, and whatever amount was collected was then passed on to Puas, with the unpaid amount becoming accumulated arrears over the years.  

The developer also said attempts to disconnect individual supplies to those who had not paid had been met with strong resistance and proved to be futile.  

The developer urged the errant residents to promptly settle their payments to avoid such incidents from happening again.