KUCHING: The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) plans to construct a 200 metre reinforced concrete box drain to tackle recurring flash floods along Jalan Padungan and Jalan Chan Chin Ann.
MBKS Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng said the proposed flood mitigation project is aimed at increasing the capacity and efficiency of the existing drainage network, which faces limitations during intense rainfall.
The move also forms part of efforts to address recurring flash flooding affecting Jalan Abell and surrounding areas, which has drawn concerns from residents, business operators and road users.
The proposed works include the construction of an additional reinforced concrete box drain measuring 1.2 metres wide and 1.2 metres deep, together with survey works and the relocation of existing utility services where necessary.
Affected roads and footpaths will also be reinstated, while appropriate traffic and safety management measures will be put in place during the implementation of the project.
Wee said upgrading drainage infrastructure in an established and busy part of the city required careful planning due to the presence of roads, buildings, businesses and underground utility services.
“This is an old and developed part of the city. Whatever improvement we carry out must be properly planned because there are existing utilities, roads, businesses and properties surrounding the area.
“We want to make sure that what we do is effective and provides a lasting improvement, rather than simply shifting the flooding problem from one location to another,” he said on MBKS Facebook page today.
He said the additional drainage infrastructure is intended to accommodate higher volumes of stormwater and provide a more reliable drainage system for the surrounding areas.
Once the consultant finalises the necessary plans and technical documentation, MBKS will proceed with the tender process for the implementation of the project.
Wee said the proposed works would not mark the end of the council’s efforts to address flash flooding.
“We cannot control how much rain falls or when a severe thunderstorm occurs, but we can continue to strengthen our drainage infrastructure and improve the city’s ability to respond.
“Wherever there are weaknesses, we will continue to study them and, where necessary, plan for improvements,” he said.
He also appealed for the understanding of the public and business community when construction begins, as temporary traffic arrangements and some inconvenience may be unavoidable.
MBKS, he said, will coordinate the necessary measures to minimise disruption to road users and surrounding businesses.
“Flood mitigation cannot be solved overnight, especially in an established urban area. But that does not mean we stop trying.
“MBKS will continue to do what we can, step by step, area by area, to improve our drainage system and reduce the impact of flooding,” Wee said.
