Flood mitigation systems in KL need an overhaul

THE recurring flash floods in Kuala Lumpur following just an hour or slightly more of heavy rainfall should warrant the serious attention of the authorities.

While heavy rainfall and changing weather patterns are contributing factors, we cannot overlook weaknesses in our urban drainage infrastructure, inadequate maintenance, clogged drains, accumulated silt and irresponsible construction activities.

The problem calls for more than temporary solutions or emergency drain-clearing exercises.

Kuala Lumpur needs a comprehensive and sustained overhaul of its drainage and flood mitigation systems.

I would like to propose the following measures.

First, undertake a comprehensive audit and upgrading of the entire drainage network in Kuala Lumpur. Ageing, undersized and inadequate drains must be identified and upgraded to cope with increasing rainfall intensity and rapid urban development.

The Kuala Lumpur Urban Drainage Master Plan must be reviewed and implemented effectively.

Second, strengthen regular maintenance and cleaning of drains, rivers and waterways. Clearing rubbish, removing accumulated silt and ensuring unobstructed water flow must become a systematic and continuous responsibility of the authorities.

Third, impose stricter enforcement on construction and development activities. Developers and contractors must ensure that adequate silt traps, sediment-control measures and proper drainage systems are installed and maintained.

Those who disregard these requirements must face substantial penalties, including stop-work orders where necessary.

Fourth, invest in more flood retention ponds, underground stormwater storage facilities, detention tanks and pumping stations. These facilities can help manage excessive rainwater and prevent sudden water surges from overwhelming the drainage network.

Fifth, adopt the Sponge City concept by preserving green spaces, increasing permeable surfaces and incorporating sustainable urban drainage solutions into new developments. Kuala Lumpur must be planned as a city that can absorb, retain and manage rainwater rather than simply channel it away.

Sixth, establish stronger coordination and accountability among KL City Hall, the Department of Irrigation and Drainage and other relevant agencies.

There must be clear implementation targets, timelines and regular public reporting on the progress of flood mitigation projects.

I also urge the authorities to strengthen early warning systems and emergency response arrangements to protect motorists, pedestrians and communities living in flood-prone areas.

Our objective must be to make Kuala Lumpur a flood-resilient city with a clear determination to achieve zero preventable flood-related deaths and minimise flood incidents and damage.

TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE

Chairman

Alliance For A Safe Community