Putrajaya Wetlands - data, performance and modelling
2003
Sim, C.H.
Constructed wetlands offer a cheaper and low-cost technology alternative for wastewater treatment where no new or complex technological tools are needed by duplicating the natural processes of the natural wetlands. Plants and microorganisms are the active agents in the treatment processes. Putrajaya Wetlands is the first constructed wetland in Malaysia for stormwater treatment, flood control and recreational use. The wetlands can also function as a wildlife sanctuary and a public recreational area. The wetlands were built on the valleys of Sungai Chuau and Sungai Bisa with a total wetland area of 650 hectares, with 197 ha comprising of 24 wetland cells and the remainder make up the Putrajaya Lake (453 ha). The lake water should meet the Department of Environment (DOE)water quality standard of Class IIB, for recreational use with body contact only. The wetlands were constructed in March 1997 and were completed in March 1999. Since then, monitoring and maintenance works are being carried out on a regular basis to ensure the sustainability of the constructed wetlands. Water quality measurement was carried out and evaluated using the water quality index method. A total of 37 water samples were collected twice a month during the construction stage (March till March 1998) and during the monitoring stage (April 1998 till September 1999). During the maintenance stage (October 1999 till present), samples were taken once a month. In June 2000, a total of 78 water samples were taken and the water quality index (WQI) results indicate none of the wetland cells are polluted. The overall WQI for June 2000 is 84.6 (WQI 79 indicate clean water). This result shows that the wetlands are functioning well as a water filtration system. However the wetlands are facing some problems on site such as siltation, plant disease and weed invasion. Therefore, the wetlands have to be closely monitored and maintained. There is a need to develop a wetland model to help in predicting, assessing and controlling the overall wetland performance and its efficiency. However more research is required on wetland modelling which will be a useful tool for wetland managers and relevant agencies.
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