By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, July 15: Padang Kerbau and Jalan Cahaya have been identified as flood-prone hotspots to be prioritised under the RM50 million flood mitigation project in Miri, with immediate drain deepening and culvert works to begin first, says Sarawak Minister for Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin.

According to a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news report, Lee said both areas are often affected by flash floods due to inefficient drainage systems and runoff from nearby hills, and stressed the urgency of resolving drainage issues in the worst-hit areas without waiting for the full implementation of the two-year master plan.

“I’ve requested the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) to prioritise the most affected areas such as Padang Kerbau and Jalan Cahaya.

“Don’t wait for the full implementation of the plan which may take two years. Let’s resolve the issues in the critical areas first,” he said during a working visit to both project sites yesterday (July 14).

During the visit, Lee inspected the proposed clearing and desilting of the existing earth stream drain at Jalan Cahaya, which is currently under tender, and ongoing works at the earth drain in Pujut Padang Kerbau.

He pointed out that the main issue is the absence of a culvert beneath the road, which leads to water stagnation and hinders smooth flow.

“We will construct a culvert across the road to facilitate water flow and ensure the drainage system is fully upgraded,” he added.

However, Lee also noted a major hurdle involving a privately-owned piece of land situated along a key drainage route, where the landowner has refused to grant temporary access.

“We will continue negotiations, but if no other solution is found, the government may need to acquire the land in the public interest,” he stressed.

The flood mitigation works are part of the Drainage System Improvement Plan for Sungai Dalam, which covers flood-prone neighbourhoods including Taman Tunku, Jalan Cahaya, Padang Kerbau, and Lopeng Baru.

Lee also extended appreciation to DID for their close cooperation in implementing the flood mitigation plan to safeguard residents in Miri from recurring flash floods. — DayakDaily