SIBU: The ongoing flood mitigation project in Sentosa Salim is an important step toward resolving the recurring flood problems in the area.
According to Bukit Assek assemblyman Chieng Jin Ek, the flood mitigation project is being carried out in two phases, with Phase 1 expected to be completed by April this year.
“Once Phase 1 is completed, work on Phase 2 will commence. At present, the design for Phase 2 is being finalised by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID).
“With the implementation of both phases, we hope that flash flood issues in this area can be reduced,” he said when met after visiting affected homes in Sentosa Phase 1 and Phase 2 recently.
Chieng explained that the cause of the current flash floods in Sentosa Salim is due to the ongoing construction work for the flood mitigation project.
He said that the ongoing construction has led to blockages in water flow in several areas, contributing to flooding in the region.
“Sentosa Salim is essentially a swampy area with many low-lying spots, making it highly susceptible to floods.
“However, this flood mitigation project is a crucial step toward resolving the issue in the long term,” he said.
Chieng also reported that water levels in some houses remain high, with certain areas experiencing a rise of up to approximately two feet.
As such, he stressed the need to intensify efforts to upgrade infrastructure to ensure that access to affected areas is not cut off.
“We will work with other government agencies to upgrade infrastructure because accessibility is a very important issue.
“I will meet with the Sibu Division Resident to discuss the issue of flood victims in more detail,” he said.
On a related note, Chieng also mentioned that no residents have been relocated to temporary evacuation centres (PPS), as most of them have chosen to stay on the upper floors of their homes or take shelter with relatives.
“However, I have submitted an appeal to the Sarawak government to consider this matter on a case-by-case basis, despite the fact that many flood victims are not technically eligible for aid,” he said.
