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By Tedong Rantayy
MIRI, Jan 30: The Sarawak government is rolling out a comprehensive, long-term master plan aimed at addressing flash flooding and landslide risks in Miri, with key initiatives led by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage Sarawak (DID), according to Minister for Transport Sarawak, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin.
Speaking at his Chinese New Year open house at Dato Permaisuri Community Hall today, Lee outlined the ongoing efforts to mitigate these natural hazards.
He highlighted that high-risk areas for landslides have been identified, with the government actively taking steps to address the situation.
To mitigate future flooding risks, the DID has been tasked with studying flood-prone areas and implementing solutions through a detailed drainage master plan.
“We are already conducting a drainage master plan for Desa Senadin, Permyjaya, and Lutong. Once the study is completed, drainage improvement works will commence,” Lee confirmed.
In addition to the flood studies, a geological assessment is underway on Canada Hill to evaluate soil and rock conditions.
“A long-term mitigation plan is essential for high-risk areas like Kampung Lereng Bukit,” he explained.
Lee shared that he had visited the site of a recent landslide and was briefed on the ongoing rescue and evacuation operations.
“As of last night, the body of the last victim, a 71-year-old woman, was recovered at around 6pm. This brings the total number of recovered victims to five,” he said.
The Sarawak Disaster Management Team is closely monitoring high-risk areas and facilitating evacuations as needed.
Temporary evacuation centres have been established at Bulan Sabit Merah, Pujut Tanjung Batu Community Hall, and Kampung Sukan, with plans to set up additional centres if required.
Landslides have primarily impacted Kampung Lereng Bukit and parts of Kampung Haji Wahed, including Hilltop Garden.
He added that the authorities will continue to monitor the areas closely, particularly as heavy rainfall is expected to persist until Jan 31.
While flash floods have impacted low-lying areas in Miri, particularly in Desa Pujut, Senadin, and Pujut. However, Lee pointed out that the situation is less severe than in Bintulu, which has experienced widespread flooding.
Lee reassured residents that efforts to improve drainage infrastructure are well underway.
“The consultant has been appointed, and once the survey is completed, tenders will be called to implement major drainage improvements, particularly in Desa Senadin, Tudan, Permyjaya, and the Lutong beachfront,” he said. –DayakDaily