Narrow drains contribute to flooding

(From left) Chua, PRM treasurer Yeoh Cheng Huat and team member Chew Seng Tung showing the infographic as a solution to the water drainage system at Taman Seri Setia in Lintang Lembah Permai 1, Tanjong Bungah. — Photos: ASRI ABDUL GHANI/The Star

RESIDENTS of Taman Seri Setia flat and Lintang Lembah Permai 1, Tanjung Bungah, have expressed dismay over the improper planning of drainage system which resulted in flash floods in November last year.

In a press conference organised by Penang Parti Rakyat Malaysia (PRM), the residents hoped the authorities would come up with solutions to overcome the issue.

Penang PRM complaints unit head Chua Cheong Wei claimed the drainage system is ‘linked’ to several high-rise buildings in the area.

“All the water from the high-rise flows to the lower ground and remain stagnant at the drainage near Block A Taman Seri Setia flat.

“The narrow drainage system compounds matter further, resulting in water flooding the area whenever there is heavy rain.

The narrow drainage system which Chua claims results in flooding in the area.

“The drainage of Lintang Lembah Permai 1 is not built in a straight line, causing improper flow of water which results in floods in the residential area,” he said during a site visit recently.

Taman Seri Setia and Lintang Lembah Permai management committee chairman Wong Fook Kong said there should be proper connection of the drainage systems in the area so that water can flow smoothly.

“Proper planning should be done and hope the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) can solve the issues faced by the residents,” said Wong.

State Flood Mitigation Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said he would instruct the MBPP Engineering Department to look into the issues.

Several places in Penang were affected by the massive floods that hit the northern region on Nov 4 and 5, last year with the area inundated with floodwaters which reached 1.5m at one point.