Frequent flash floods, the latest being on Monday (Nov 14), has continued to be a thorn in the flash for city folks and those leaving in the fringes of the city.
On Monday, just like any other flood affected day, the capital city was thrown into chaos, bringing traffic to a standstill and subsequently resulting in unaccounted damage to public property.
The cause of the flash floods is no secret anymore since many a time, inadequate flood control measures, clogged drains, overflowing rivers due to siltation and irresponsible land clearing activities have been identified as the main reasons.
Taking stock of the situation and the current rainy spell looming, the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has moved into action by taking immediate measures to improve drainage and resolve flash flood incidents.
DBKL deputy director-general Datuk Amin Nordin Abd Aziz said a number of flood mitigation programmes had already started, especially building flood water diversions along Sungai Keruh and Sungai Gombak.
Amin said apart from diverting water from the rivers to a retention pond during heavy rainfall and work to increase the height of retaining walls along rivers, DBKL has also taken the initiative to clean the city drainage – especially clogged drains and carry out de-siltation.
“Water diverted to retention ponds will reduce flooding caused by rivers spilling that spill their banks due to heavy rain,” he told Bernama.
He added that Alam Flora were also tasked to clean up blocked drainage holes along the roads to allow water to flow smoothly into the drains when it rained.
“No matter rain, shine or flood, such work will continue to reduce the impact of flash floods and help water to subside quickly,” he said.
Amin said to ease the burden of road users whose vehicles are trapped in flood waters, DBKL would provide towing services at the affected areas.
“I would also like to advise road users to listen to the radio for latest weather and traffic reports. By doing so they will be able to know the condition of roads leading to their destination,” he said.
He said DBKL operations room would also be operating round the clock for 24 hours to assist city folks in distress.
Meanwhile, motorcyclists in the city have urged the DBKL to set up more rain shelter facilities to seek shelter when it rained.
Ahmad Othman, 30, said rain shelter facilities at strategic locations are important for motorcyclists, so that they do not continue their journey during heavy rain or when the roads are flooded, because it may pose a serious danger.
“Within the city, I feel there are enough shelters but such facilities are very few along highways,” he said.
He added that it was dangerous to ride when it rained because pot holes that pose a danger to motorcyclists may be covered with water and not visible, causing many freak accidents.
Amirah Abd Karim, 35, who owns a car, urged DBKL to engage traffic control measures when roads are flooded or during massive traffic jams.
–BERNAMA
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