KUCHING, Dec 8: The Ministry of Works (KKR) has mobilised its disaster operations centre (BigBen) to deal with any natural disasters caused by the Northeast Monsoon that is expected to last until March 2023.
Newly-minted Works Minister Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi when visiting BigBen yesterday (Dec 7) said the centre is a reference source for government agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the community to obtain the latest information related to natural disasters.
“Fast and accurate information through BigBen not only helps to provide accurate information to the community but also to the security forces on duty in disaster areas,” he said.
In the event of a disaster, Nanta said his ministry has prepared 2,580 machineries throughout Peninsular Malaysia to carry out emergency works and provide detour signages for roads that are cut off.
Other measures taken included efforts to identify disaster-prone routes, conduct regular inspections on roads, slopes, drains and sewers as well as install wooden stakes to indicate flood water levels.
“KKR is also ready to mobilise the Bailey Bridge, which is a temporary bridge that can be assembled in a minimum period of 36 hours as an alternative route to connect areas cut off due to disasters.
“This bridge is one of the important assets in KKR that has proven to be effective in dealing with emergency situations,” said Nanta in a statement today.
Meanwhile, all road users are advised to be careful when travelling on the road during this monsoon season.
Any information on the status of road disasters can be obtained from JKR’s disaster portal at www.bencanaalam.jkr.gov.my, through the Twitter page at @JKRMalaysia, @CSFJ_JKR and the Malaysian Public Works Department Facebook page, or by contacting 03-26107727. — Dayakdaily
