By Norrasyidah Arshad
SHAH ALAM, Nov 26 – The Selangor government has allocated over RM493 million to implement 13 flood mitigation projects in Klang, said state executive councillor for infrastructure and agriculture Izham Hashim.
Izham said seven projects are under construction, including works at Sungai Kandis (32 per cent complete), Sungai Rasau (28 per cent), Taman Melawis (66 per cent), and the Sungai Rasau basin (77 per cent).
He added that three additional projects are also underway — at Sungai Kembong (49 per cent complete), Sungai Pinang (52 per cent), and a flood retention pond at New North Klang Straits Bypass near Bukit Raja (22 per cent).
“Four projects are in pre-implementation, namely, at Sungai Enam Sementa, the drainage systems at Batu 4 Kapar and Batu 4 and Batu 7 Jalan Bukit Kemuning, as well as the Kampung Johan Setia drainage system.
“These 11 projects involve state funding of RM133.8 million, while federal funding of RM359.7 million is allocated for two flood mitigation projects in progress: Seri Muda and Sungai Kapar,” he said.
Responding to a question during the Selangor State Legislative Assembly sitting today, Izham urged stakeholders to collaborate and coordinate efforts while identifying flood-related projects every five years.
“In the past, there were communication issues between local authorities and the Irrigation and Drainage Department (JPS).
“Many assume flood management is handled entirely by the JPS, but it also involves district authorities, village roads, and village drains under the purview of local authorities.
“I have held multiple discussions to improve coordination. I have asked them to identify upgrading projects at least five years ahead to minimise flood risks,” he said.
Last week, five areas in Klang were hit by flash floods after heavy rain, namely, Bandar Bukit Raja, Kampung Batu Belah, Rantau Panjang, Meru, and Padang Jawa.
