SHAH ALAM: The Selangor government has allocated RM36.45mil for 47 immediate flood mitigation projects under the Irrigation and Drainage Department (DID) for 2027, says Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.
The Selangor Mentri Besar, when tabling the state's Budget 2027, said that of the total, RM9.15mil would be for the Sungai Klang basin and RM7.35mil for the development of the Sungai Langat basin.
He said the allocation would also cover the Sungai Buloh, Sungai Selangor, Sungai Bernam and Sungai Kapar Besar river basins, as well as preparatory works such as design, surveying and land matters.
He added that, of the 47 projects, 30 are continuation projects, of which 13 have been completed and are undergoing final account preparation, nine are being implemented, two are at the pre-tender stage while six are at the design stage.
"As for the 17 new projects, one is at the design stage, 11 are in the process of appointing consultants and five are still at the planning stage," he said at the Selangor state legislative assembly sitting Friday (Nov 13).
Amirudin also said that RM19.38mil had been allocated for 25 irrigation system projects, RM17.90mil for 16 river basin development and management projects, and RM6.63mil for nine environmentally friendly irrigation projects.
For flood mitigation projects under the Selangor Maritime Gateway Economic Development Zone (SMG ZPE), RM25mil has been proposed to continue works to increase river capacity and improve water flow, with the projects having achieved 71.43% physical progress.
While physical works are underway, Amirudin said the disaster warning system between the state and district operation centres and agencies on the ground would also be improved.
"Through the Community-Based Disaster Risk Management Programme and training in schools, we want residents to know where they need to go, who to contact and how to assist those who need support to evacuate," he added.
Amirudin also wants the Public Works Department (JKR), local authorities and the DID to prioritise projects that resolve flooding problems, including culverts and drainage systems.
"Technical reviews that can be conducted concurrently should be initiated simultaneously. If a decision involves multiple agencies, the matter must be brought to the relevant authorities who can resolve it at an earlier stage.
"The Netherlands' experience offers us a guide on what needs to be accelerated and one of the initiatives is the integration of embankments and water control structures with planning that allows rivers to overflow more safely," he added.
Meanwhile, he said the state government would provide a public dashboard displaying project locations, implementing agencies and updates on implementation phases, from the appointment of design consultants and contractors to the progress of on-site works.
"Before the monsoon season begins, the government will update the status of flood-prone locations, detailing the related projects, appointments that have been made and works expected to be completed in time.
"With this information, residents can know the level of protection in their areas ahead of the rainy season and refer directly to the agencies responsible," he said. - Bernama
