BEAUFORT: The Federal Government has been urged to immediately fast-track previously approved flood mitigation projects as flooding in the district becomes more frequent and severe.
Lumadan Assemblyman Datuk Ruslan Muharam said the projects involve four critical locations, Kampung Lubak, Kampung Lupak and two sites in Kampung Suasa, which are flood catchment areas.
“These projects are crucial as flooding has worsened, with more than 14 incidents recorded last year alone,” he said, adding that immediate implementation is needed to reduce risks and protect residents’ properties from repeated losses.
Ruslan was speaking during a flood inspection and visits to Temporary Evacuation Centres (PPS) at Kampung Batandok Mosque and the Padas Damit Multipurpose Hall here.
The Assistant Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry said the first phase of flood mitigation works in Beaufort town had proven effective, with areas such as the old town no longer affected by floods.
“Previously, business activities were badly disrupted, but that is no longer the case. We hope the second phase, from Beaufort District Hospital to the New Bridge at Kampung Bingkul, will also include mitigation works at the four affected locations,” he said.
On flood-related losses, Ruslan said residents suffered damages amounting to millions of ringgit, including destruction of crops, livestock and personal property.
“Economic activities and employment are disrupted as roads are cut off, preventing residents from going to work or running businesses,” he said.
Losses include damage to oil palm plantations, vegetable farms and livestock such as goats, chickens and buffaloes, as well as shrimp ponds and freshwater fish farms.
Vehicles, electrical appliances and other household items were also destroyed.
As of 4pm Wednesday, three additional PPS, Kampung Batandok Mosque, Padas Damit and Dewan Prima Lumat, were opened alongside Selagon PPS.
A total of 216 households involving 646 victims from 70 villages were evacuated following rising water levels in the Padas River.
