Fourth logjam in Balai Ringin sparks outrage, assemblyman demands stern action

The massive logjam along Sg Krangan, Balai Ringin.
Advertisement

By DayakDaily Team

BALAI RINGIN, Feb 3: A massive logjam along Sungai Krangan has once again wreaked havoc in Balai Ringin, submerging the fishing nets of 47 local fishermen in Kampung Melayu.

This marks the fourth time such an incident has occurred, severely impacting their livelihoods.

Advertisement

Balai Ringin assemblyman Dato Snowdan Lawan has called for stern action against the plantation company responsible for the floating deadwood and debris, which he said resulted from indiscriminate forest clearing upstream.

“Every time there’s heavy rain or flooding, debris from the plantation company drifts down the river, creating massive blockages,” he said in a statement today.

Beyond affecting the fishermen, Snowdan warned that the logjam also poses a serious risk to Balai Ringin’s water supply, as it threatens the Water Intake Plant (WIP) located along Sungai Krangan.

His statement follows complaints from local residents, particularly the affected fishermen, whose nets have been lost beneath the debris.

He urged the Natural Resources and Environment Board (NREB), the District Office, and other relevant authorities to take firm action, including clearing the logjam and preventing future occurrences.

“Penalties alone do not seem to deter the plantation company from its reckless forest clearing, and they remain indifferent to the struggles of the local community.

“The kampung folks say this is the worst logjam yet, especially with the recent floods. It’s time for stricter enforcement and stronger deterrents,” he added. – DayakDaily

Advertisement