By Lian Cheng
KUCHING, April 14: The Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) is bracing for dry weather with more attention placed on Miri while at the same time, it will clear clogged rivers following an allocation of RM29 million to minimise the occurrence of flash floods in cities, towns and settlements.
SDMC chairman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the committee will call for a meeting soon to gather all 11 agencies under it to prepare for the dry season.
“We will soon be briefed by the Ministry of Environment on potential hotspots in Sarawak and we will trigger all the necessary measures.
“We are focusing on certain areas that may experience haze during the hot season. One of these areas is Miri.
“The committee is preparing for all eventualities caused by dry weather and the increase of hotspots.
“The Premier (Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg) has also approved RM29 million to clear rivers which are clogged and the possible cause of the (recent) floods,” said Uggah when contacted.
The river clearing exercise will prepare the region for the end of the year, when the monsoon season sets in.
On the number of rabies cases recently, Uggah, who is also Deputy Premier of Sarawak, said there are still sporadic cases here and there.
He said the Veterinary Department of Sarawak (VDS) and the Medical Department will continue to monitor the rabies situation and advise the people from time to time on any developments.
“The people must continue to be cautious and if they happen to be bitten by cats or dogs, they must seek treatment immediately. Don’t wait,” Uggah advised. — DayakDaily
