Underground cables partly to blame for Kuching flash floods, reveals MBKS Mayor

Wee (second right) together with other MBKS officers and staff inspecting drains around Kuching areas which have been affected by flash floods recently.

KUCHING, Nov 19: Flash floods in some Kuching South City Council (MBKS) areas such as the King Centre roundabout were due to inappropriate laying of underground utilities cables by irresponsible contractors.

As such, MBKS Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng urged utility contractors to contact MBKS before commencing any work to avoid the disruption of water flow inside the drains.

“We have been actively raising awareness about the risks of damaging the concrete scupper drain by irresponsible contractors through social media and on site engagement.


“Despite these efforts, many irresponsible contractors still ignored the advice and did not engage with MBKS prior to the installation of the cable,” he emphasised in a statement today.

A worker clearing the inside of a drain.

Wee, who was concerned about flash flood occurrence during the present raining season, had visited and inspected various areas under MBKS’ jurisdiction including Taman Ridgeway, Jalan Laksamana Cheng Ho, Stampin Baru, Sungai Apong, Simpang Tiga, Jalan Foochow and others the past few days.

While MBKS has been doing its level best to upgrade the drains, he pointed out that flash floods still occurred due to the king tide.

Wee once again urged contractors carrying out works within MBKS’ area of jurisdiction to notify its Engineering Division before commencing works.

They may contact MBKS at 082-354200 or email request@mbks.gov.my. — DayakDaily