Realistic, long-term solutions for flash floods

WHENEVER a flash flood occurs, the natural tendency for most people, especially those in areas that are not affected, is to view it as inevitable. But flash flooding is not inevitable and we should be prepared for realistic, long-term solutions to mitigate the problem, especially when we are responsible for causing them through our irresponsible acts.

While there have been various measures to mitigate flash floods, we are still not fully prepared as the steps are either ineffective or the related authorities are not totally committed to the issue. It is time for the responsible authorities, notably Kuala Lumpur City Hall and the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), to conduct an in-depth analysis to provide an effective solution for the future irrigation and flood mitigation system in the city.