SHAH ALAM, Nov 25 — A total of 291 locations across the state have been identified as at high risk of flooding during the northeast monsoon, said Selangor Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) assistant director (operations) Ahmad Mukhlis Mokhtar.
He said the data was obtained from the Irrigation and Drainage Department (JPS) and was the main reference for rescue agencies during the rainy season.
From the 291 at-risk areas, Klang had the most with 64 locations, followed by Hulu Langat (42), Petaling (38), Gombak (37), Sepang (35), Kuala Selangor (32), Hulu Selangor (18), Kuala Langat (17), and Sabak Bernam (8), he said on Media Selangor’s Bicara Semasa programme.
Meanwhile, 68 areas were identified as hotspots, with Klang accounting for 21 locations, followed by Hulu Langat (10), Sepang (9), Gombak (9), Petaling (8), Kuala Selangor (6), Kuala Langat (3), and Hulu Selangor (2).
Mukhlis said 1,752 firefighters have been assigned throughout the monsoon season, including 461 special forces members and 47 Water Rescue Unit (PPDA) personnel.
“Selangor JBPM has three PPDAs — at the Shah Alam, Klang and KLIA fire stations. These teams focus on rescuing flood and water surge victims,” he explained.
He also said Selangor has the highest emergency call rate at almost 30 per cent, thus asset distribution has been focused on high-risk areas.
Among assets that have been mobilised are 77 Fire Rescue Tenders, 17 tankers, and 85 boats of various types, while tactical drones will also be used to monitor flooded areas.
“Continuous monitoring is very important as operational challenges differ by location, whether in cities or rural areas,” he added.
Mukhlis said insufficient or clogged drainage systems make it difficult for rescue vehicles to travel in cities, while in rural areas, rescuers face risks of improper roads and landslide risks.
Selangor is among eight states that have been flooded due to continuous rain. As at 11.30am, 2,784 victims in the state are housed at 21 temporary relief centres (PPS) in Sabak Bernam, Kuala Selangor, Hulu Langat, Petaling, and Klang.
