SIMUNJAN: A new retaining wall to prevent further erosion of the Simunjan riverbank has been approved.
The project is listed under the Integrated Regional Samarahan Development Agency (IRSDA).
Energy and Environmental Sustainability Deputy Minister Dr Hazland Abang Hipni said the RM74 million 525-metre long erosion control project was among the five projects under IRSDA requested by local assemblyman Awla Dris.
“Another project requested is the erosion control works at Sungai Sageng (Phase 2), a 500-metrte long project that cost around RM200 million.
“We also have the proposed 700-metre long erosion control project at Sungai Sageng (phase 3), costing RM200 million.
“Next, a 500-metre long riverbank erosion retainer costing RM20 million and the 1,300-metre long upstream flood bypass around Simunjan Town (Lubok Samsu) project osting about RM252 million will be carried out under IRSDA,” he said during his visit to several villages, including areas at risk of river erosion here, on Thursday (July 14).
Unit Komunikasi Awam Sarawak (UKAS) reported that another upcoming project in Kampung Pantong here would also be listed under IRSDA.
The visit was also in conjunction with the weekly Environmental Tour Programme where Hazland explored several areas to resolve issues related to the environment.
Among the areas visited in the constituency were Kampung Sageng Ulu, Kampung Sageng Sabal, Kampung Sageng Hilir, Kampung Tabuan, Simunjan River Erosion project site, and Kampung Pantong.
He also had the opportunity to inspect several homes in Kampung Sageng that were located close to the river and affected by landslides caused by the erosion.
Hazland said that the issues brought up by Awla during the recent State Legislative Assembly meeting had drawn his attention.
“The main issue raised by him is the erosion of the river in Batang Sadong, which involves some houses in critical condition and which require immediate attention,” he added.
