BAU: Tasik Biru assemblyman Datuk Henry Harry Jinep has called on the Public Works Department (PWD) to accelerate the process of digging a waterway as a temporary solution to provide immediate relief to the flood occurring at the residential area at Taman Mawar, Jambusan here.
He said a budget of RM900,000 has been allocated to reconstruct the main culvert in an effort to address the ongoing flood issues in the residential area, but the project has been experiencing setbacks.
“Since 2021, this area has been affected by floods during the year end, due to the existing culvert being unable to handle the excess water, especially surface water resulting from housing and development activities.
“There are a few hundred houses in this area, all at a low level similar to the existing culvert. In the last flood, seven houses were severely affected, with water levels rising up to 2-3 feet.
“Today, we received feedback from the residents complaining about delays in the contractor’s work. If possible, the contractor should prioritise digging, opening up the waterway, which could alleviate some of the flooding issues.
“I hope this can be done in the next two weeks to provide immediate relief,” he said during his site visitation here today (Jan 3).
He further said the project, originally scheduled to finish within five months commencing in October last year, has been experiencing setbacks due to swift waters caused by rainy season.
He also acknowledged the lack of efficiency in the project which led to residents’ dissatisfaction.
“The grant requests and the tender process can be time-consuming. Therefore, I appeal to relevant agencies to collaborate urgently, understanding that residents cannot afford further delays, witnessing ongoing projects.”
On a related note, he also called on the Land Survey Department to monitor any unauthorised openings or developments that might impact the area, as the removal of trees has led to increased surface water, creating challenges for drainage.
In stating this, he urged the District Council to monitor areas with ongoing developments to ensure adherence to proper procedures to prevent such incidents from recurring.
