A woman walks on the flooded pontoon of the Kapit Express Boat Jetty.

KAPIT (Nov 25): The Kapit District Disaster Management Committee has activated its operations room following the rise in river water levels after continuous rain for the past three weeks.

Kapit District Officer Cerisologo Sabut said the operations room team is monitoring the rising river levels closely.

He pointed out the water level has been very high along the Rajang River, Baleh River, Pelagus River, Yong River, and Pila River.

As of 1pm today, the iHydro website showed that the Rajang River had reached 15.13 metres at the Kapit New Headworks Station, which placed it at warning level – where the river was approaching flood level and residents advised to be ready for evacuation if required.

At the Telok Ngelengkung Station, the reading was 11.54 metres at 1pm, placing it at alert level, where the water level was significantly higher than normal.

“I am concerned about the safety of those depending on river transport as well as those whose residences are at low-lying areas which are prone to flooding when the water level goes over the bank” Cerisologo said when contacted.

“Boatmen and passengers must strictly observe the river safety rules and regulations to ensure safety throughout the journey. Boatmen must ensure the boat is in good condition, don’t overload, and all on board must wear their life jackets.”

He also warned the people not to travel after nightfall.

“During the current high water, the Pelagus Rapids are dangerous to navigate because of the rocks across the riverbed and also turbulent water is certainly not safe for small boats,” he said.

He advised those living along the west bank of the Rajang River, across from Kapit town, to watch out for deadwood, vegetation, and other debris while plying the river.

Cerisologo added those travelling on logging roads must be vigilant as the routes could collapse after heavy downpours.