SHAH ALAM, Dec 23 — The upgrading works on Selangor’s coastal embankments, including raising their height over the past few years, have successfully reduced the incidence of major flooding that previously often forced residents to evacuate.
Sementa state constituency coordinator Datuk Mohd Roslee Abd Hamid said that most areas which recorded the highest tide levels exceeding 5.5 metres have now been raised by about another metre to prevent water overflow.
The Selangor Irrigation and Drainage Department (JPS) has also reinforced the embankments, or levees, with high-quality soil imported from outside to prevent erosion and reduce the risk of rising water levels.
“The upgrading works on these embankments have been ongoing for several years. After the major floods, the positive impact is clear.
"It is not just about increasing the height of the embankments, but also about using quality soil. The authorities also conduct frequent monitoring, especially during high-tide events.
“With regular monitoring, the structural strength of the embankments can be assessed, making it easier for them to take appropriate action promptly,” he told Media Selangor.
Roslee added that the water control pumps, which are consistently kept in good condition, have also helped reduce the risk of overflow that could affect the embankment structure.
“These sluice gates are important for pumping water out to sea, and during high-tide events, they help prevent backflow from the sea. So far, the relevant authorities have continuously monitored the condition of these gates.
“All of them are functioning and can be used when needed. In this constituency alone, there are 12 sluice gates. We just hope the operators can ensure all these pumps are operational when required,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kampung Tok Muda Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) chairman Abdul Halim Moklas said the embankment improvement works and regular monitoring have reduced the number of flood victims in the area.
Previously, residents living along the coast were often anxious whenever heavy rain coincided with high tides.
“When it rained, all JKKK members would gather at the embankment area, taking turns to monitor it for fear of collapse. Alhamdulillah (God be praised), JPS has now raised it to nearly six metres, which has reduced residents’ worries.
“In the past, the embankments used sandbags. Later, improvements were made. Those bags did not really help strengthen the embankments, but now they are sturdier, using quality soil.
"The embankments are fine now, although there is still some concern as they have become a habitat for crabs,” he said.
