KUCHING: Three major drainage system upgrades in Desa Wira Sinar Budi Baru, Batu Kawa, are advancing ahead of schedule thanks to the proactive efforts of Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
These upgrades, which replace the original earth drains introduced over 40 years ago with new concrete systems, aim to significantly reduce flood risks in the area.
The Batu Kawa assemblyman, who visited the project sites recently, expressed satisfaction with the smooth progress of the construction.
He also reminded contractors to maintain high-quality standards throughout the work, emphasising the potential benefits for the local community.
The drainage upgrades cover several areas in the constituency, including a project along Lorong Desa Wira 17B1 & 17B2 with a budget exceeding RM 3.54 million, another along Lorong Desa Wira 17B3 & 17B4 costing over RM 3.27 million, and an upgrade for Lorong Desa Wira 17A6, budgeted at more than RM 4.37 million.
Together, these projects involve the construction and improvement of 3,843.6 metres of drainage systems, with completion expected by February 2025.
According to the Sarawak Department of Irrigation and Drainage officer who inspected the projects, the upgrades are progressing faster than expected.
For instance, the Lorong Desa Wira 17B1 & 17B2 drainage system has reached 53.21 percent completion, ahead of the targeted 52.06 per cent.
The Lorong Desa Wira 17B3 & 17B4 works have advanced to 58.45 per cent, exceeding the 52.10 per cent target, while the Lorong Desa Wira 17A6 upgrade has achieved 43.89 per cent, slightly above its 42.93 per cent goal.
“Drainage issue is an ongoing process, especially with increasing rainfall and development in the surrounding areas.
“The Sarawak Government always continuously explores and implements effective solutions to alleviate and reduce the risk of floods,” Dr Sim asserted.
In addition, as part of the Desa Wira drainage system and flash flood mitigation plan, a retention pond will be constructed in the area.
This RM 20 million project, expected to span 20 months, is part of the Sarawak Government’s ‘Projek Rakyat’ initiative and will complement other ongoing retention pond projects in MJC and Pines Square, collectively valued at over RM 40 million.
These efforts are set to contribute to flood mitigation in Batu Kawa.
As such, the Sarawak Government’s commitment to long-term infrastructure improvements highlights its dedication to safeguarding residents’ well-being by tackling the region’s drainage challenges head-on.
