KUCHING: Construction of the third retention pond in Batu Kawa, specifically in the Desa Wira area will be carried out to tackle recurring flash floods there.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the entire project, which involves the construction of the retention pond and the upgrading of surrounding drainage systems, will cost RM20 million.
“This ‘Projek Rakyat’ is expected to be completed within 20 months,” he said in a statement after inspecting the ongoing drainage system upgrading project in the Desa Wira area on Tuesday (Aug 20).
During the inspection, officers of the Department of Drainage and Irrigation (DID) briefed Dr Sim on the project.
Dr Sim, who is Batu Kawa assemblyman, said the DID has already initiated the process for the Desa Wira retention pond project through an open tender.
“The tender advertisement was published in July this year, followed by a site inspection, and the tendering process will be completed in August this year.
“To effectively address the flooding issues in Desa Wira, a comprehensive plan is required. This involves upgrading internal drains, expanding the external drainage systems, and constructing retention ponds to mitigate the problem,” he said.
He added currently, three drainage system upgrade projects are underway in Desa Wira, including upgrades of drains at Lorong 17B1/B2, Lorong 17B3/B4, and Lorong 17A6, at a total cost of over RM3.54 million, RM3.27 million, and RM4.37 million, respectively.
“These projects cover a total drain length of 3,843.6 meters and are expected to be completed by February next year,” he said.
He also said the Sarawak government has approved the construction of the first retention pond on the vacant land in front of MJC New Township, at a cost of RM19.88 million.
“This project commenced on May 24 and is expected to be completed by May 23, 2026,” he said.
He added the second retention pond will be constructed in the Pine Square commercial area, at a cost of RM 22.50 million, and is slated for completion by November 23, 2026.
“Addressing drainage issues is an ongoing process. With the increasing amount of rainfall and surrounding land developments, the government will continuously explore and implement measures to alleviate or reduce the occurrence of flash floods,” he said.
