Water Woes in Cameron Highlands

The irony of it all! October being the rainiest period in Cameron Highlands, and guess what? Water shortage! Just came across an article in the Sunday Times, where a group of motor bikers went for a trip to Cameron Highlands. Despite the rain, the group of intrepid bikers went up the winding slippery road.

Upon checking in the hotel, they were informed that the hotel swimming pool was closed due to water shortage. It seems several other hotels including the 5-stars hotels are facing the similar problem.

How could this be despite the rain? It seems “excessive development was the cause for the water shortage” as explained by one hotel manager. “Excessive development” indeed; the many times that I visited Cameron Highlands, I never failed to see some form of construction activities going on here and there. I don’t quite understand the logic for the ongoing construction of buildings; isn’t there sufficient buildings already?

Granted that upgrading of the old roads should make it more safe for travelers to use, but plastering the hillside with cement reinforcement does makes it unsightly and makes it out of place with the surrounding tropical jungle.

Much of the appeal for visiting good old Cameron Highlands besides its cool climate weather, is its greenery and lush tropical jungle stretches. Imagine if all this were to be replaced with concrete jungle instead; I may as well stay put in Kuala Lumpur.

Development of an area by frenetic construction does not always equate with progress if the preservation of environment is not taken into account as well.

Here’s hoping the authorities would come to their senses and limit the amount of construction. Already the Sultan Abu Bakar Lake opposite the Lakehouse Hotel is one of the casualties not to mention the lessening cooling climate weather. And now with the addition of water shortage woes, the powers to be should take note because ultimately tourist will shy away and where will this lead to?