KUCHING: Relevant authorities in the state have been instructed to conduct a study on the identified high-risk soil erosion areas before preemptive measures are taken to alert the locals in the areas.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said that thus far, about 77 high-risk areas of soil erosion have been identified by the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba).
“I have instructed all divisional engineers in the state to discuss with the Bomba the necessity for a study to be done on the identified areas.
“Following that, we will decide whether preemptive measures should be taken to avoid any problems arising,” he told reporters after hosting a Christmas open house at his residence here, today (Dec 25).
Uggah, who is also the Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development, added that the locals will be notified if the area poses any risk.
At the same time, he said the state Public Works Department (JKR) is now on full standby and ready in case of possible road and bridge damage due to heavy rain or flooding.
“If the infrastructure was damaged by the floods or rain, the JKR will also swiftly fix it,” he said.
On another note, Uggah reminded those who planned to visit and organise picnics, especially in the rural areas, to be extra careful in view of the monsoon season.
“If you are from the town and heading up to the rural area, please consult the local folks about whether the area is safe to have picnics or not,” said the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman.
Commenting further, he mentioned that SDMC committees at the division and district levels are also on full alert until the end of February to face the flood situation.
