Hassan: DID cleared up and deepened the river last year but the flood problem remains unresolved.
UNEVEN drainage has been identified as the main cause of flooding at Kampung Seri Bahagia in Taman Molek, Pasir Gudang in Johor.
Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Abdul Karim said the village was developed more than 50 years ago, and the increasing number of houses, growing population and water usage was affecting water flow.
“The village is located next to a Sungai Plentong tributary that leads directly to the sea so when heavy rain coincides with high tide, flood occurs.
“Houses here are built on uneven ground so the drainage system is uneven too, which results in water overflowing during a downpour,” he said after visiting flood victims at the village.
Hassan said the Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) cleared up and deepened the river last year but the flood problem was still not resolved.
“So the best short-term measure is creating a temporary water dam to push excess water to the river and sea, and ensure it does not flow back into the village during high tide.
“The long-term solution includes installing a water pump here.
“This will involve a large allocation,” he said, adding that he would be meeting with relevant agencies to discuss the matter.
Meanwhile, Kampung Seri Bahagia Action Committee representative Mohd Zein Mohd Khaled said the drainage was often clogged with mud.
“The drains here are very old and are not made from concrete.
“Dirt and mud in the drain prevent water from flowing smoothly during downpours.
“So villlagers are hoping that the government provides an allocation for a proper drainage system to prevent floods,” he said.
