WATER CONSUMPTION AND MAINTENANCE OF ADEQUATE SUPPLY

Mr A. P. Rajah asked the Prime Minister what is the present average daily consumption of water; the present safe capacity of the water supply and the annual rate of increase in the consumption of water; and what steps the City Council is taking or proposes to take to ensure the maintenance of an adequate supply of water.

Mr Lee Kuan Yew: The present average daily consumption of water is 62.5 million gallons. The average safe capacity for water supply is 65 million gallons per day under favourable climatic conditions as at present. The annual rate of increase is 3.5 million gallons per day. There are immediate plans to increase the output from the Tebrau Waterworks which would take care of the additional water demands until the Johore River scheme is completed.

Mr Rajah: Could the Prime Minister give an indication to the House when the Johore River scheme will be commenced?

Mr Lee Kuan Yew: I require notice for that question, Mr Speaker, Sir.