JOHOR government has outlined a plan to implement immediate and long-term measures to tackle recurring floods in Skudai.
State housing and local government committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor said he chaired a meeting with Iskandar Puteri mayor Ahmad Nazir Mohd Nasir to discuss the matter as Skudai was under its jurisdiction.
“Following the floods on March 4 and 5, we called a meeting with key department heads from Iskandar Puteri City Council (MBIP) as well as representatives from SWCorp, SWM Environment and Drainage and Irrigation Department.
“The meeting was to expedite a comprehensive flood mitigation plan, including short-, medium- and long-term measures that MBIP will undertake,” he said when contacted.
Mohd Jafni added that MBIP has identified nine flood-prone areas, including Batu 8 ½ Skudai, Kampung Poh Chee Leng and Jalan Zapin 3.
“MBIP has started urgent cleaning operations in affected locations, including clearing blocked drains, ditches and main water channels caused by domestic waste, fallen trees and landscaping debris,” he said.
Mohd Jafni said MBIP had also started a tender process for excavation works and sediment removal from drainage systems and main water channels.
“Upgrading works will also be carried out in flood-prone areas that do not require extensive feasibility studies.
“I visited several flood hotspots and based on these inspections, MBIP has decided to conduct immediate riverbed cleaning operations to prevent future flooding,” he said.
The project is expected to begin in the third quarter of this year, he said, adding that MBIP would construct embankments along drainage areas to prevent overflow and protect residents’ homes from water intrusion.
“For a more sustainable solution, MBIP will conduct studies on long-term flood mitigation measures, including the construction of dual-function retention ponds to manage excess water effectively.
“The state government will ensure a coordinated and integrated approach among MBIP, government agencies and private developers to resolve drainage and irrigation issues.
“Additionally, we will develop a flood mitigation system to prevent future occurrences.”
Mohd Jafni also urged folk to maintain a clean environment and prevent clogging the drainage system.
