MIRI: A special allocation of RM3 million has been approved for maintenance and improvement works on the drainage system in the Senadin area, including Desa Senadin, Tudan and Permyjaya.

Sarawak Minister for Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said the allocation is crucial to ensure drainage systems in the affected areas function effectively and help reduce the risk of flooding.

He said the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) and the Miri City Council (MBM) must increase periodic maintenance of retention ponds and drainage systems, particularly the removal of aquatic plants, weeds and other vegetation that grow rapidly and could obstruct water flow.

He made these remarks after inspecting retention pond cleaning operations at Jalan Ilmu, Desa Senadin and Lakeshore Villa with DID personnel on Monday.

Dato Sri Lee also told DID to prepare a more comprehensive maintenance programme covering all retention ponds and major drains under its supervision, including a list of maintenance works to be carried out over the next two months.

At the same time, the Senadin Assemblyman emphasised the need for closer cooperation between DID and MBM on drainage maintenance, including managing rubbish and floating debris entering retention ponds through the drainage system.

“Vegetation grows very quickly. Therefore, cleaning works need to be carried out every few months to ensure the retention ponds remain in good condition,” he said.

In a related development, Dato Sri Lee said MBM is expected to carry out the necessary works promptly, including clearing drains before the end of the year.

He also noted that repair works on roads damaged by floods earlier this year are currently underway, including the upgrading of Jalan Ilmu at a cost of over RM1.4 million.

He stated that the retention pond inspected at Lakeshore Villa, Desa Senadin, covers an area of approximately 12.4 hectares, and that continuous maintenance of retention ponds, major drains and roadside drains is crucial to improving drainage capacity and reducing the risk of flooding in Senadin and surrounding areas. -UKASnews