PADANG BESAR: The Perlis Irrigation and Drainage Department has identified 22 hotspots facing drainage and irrigation issues, contributing significantly to flooding in the state.
Its director Amir Budiman Abdullah said that among the areas are Kampung Bakau in Kangar, which is currently experiencing floods, as well as Kg Titi Besi, Kg Sungai Padang and Kg Kubang Gajah in Arau.
“These hotspots have poor drainage systems and are relatively low-lying. When it rains, it leads to flooding.
“In some areas, we are using mobile pumps to reduce the flood risk,” he told reporters during an inspection of the Timah Tasoh Dam.
Amir Budiman noted that flooding has been a recurring issue in these areas, particularly in low-lying regions.
He said the department believes a long-term solution such as developing a more effective flood mitigation system is needed, Bernama reported.
Amir Budiman emphasised that addressing the drainage and irrigation issues in these areas is not solely the responsibility of the department, as it also involves other agencies and private stakeholders.
“Dealing with private land is more challenging as we cannot provide services directly. We need to assess the situation.
“If it involves collaboration between agencies, we will discuss it with the relevant ones to find a solution.
“For drainage systems that are blocked, we inform the relevant agencies or parties to assist. If water is trapped in the drainage system and needs to flow into the main river, that is our responsibility, and we will take action,” he stated.
Amir Budiman also noted that the department conducts cleaning and maintenance of drainage systems four times a year, focusing on locations within its irrigation areas.
