Residents at flood-prone areas in FT advised to evacuate before disaster strikes

KUALA LUMPUR: Residents in flood-prone areas in the Federal Territories are advised to move to the relief centres two days ahead of expected flooding, says Datuk Seri Dr Shahidan Kassim.

The Federal Territories Minister said the move was to minimise the use of assets – especially boats and heavy vehicles – that would be needed for an evacuation.

"The Federal Territories Disaster Management Committee has agreed in principle that victims would evacuate two days before and return to their respective homes two days after floods.

"When floodwaters have receded, those seeking shelter at the relief centres will remain there for another two days to ensure that their houses have been cleaned and are safe for occupation," he said in a video recording on the committee's preparedness for floods.

To provide comfort to flood victims, Shahidan said new lavatories will be built at all FT relief centres in addition to existing bathrooms. – Bernama