Better drainage systems part of council action in flood hotspots

THERE have been significant improvements at several flood hotspots in Kulai, Johor, following upgrading works.

Kulai Municipal Council (MPKu) president Mohd Fahmi Salam said that only two of the seven flood hotspots were still in need of special attention.

He said the local council was urged to prioritise flood issues and work towards making Kulai a flood-free area.

“As such, we are working closely with other government agencies and private companies, especially developers, to come up with ways to mitigate the problem.

Wong calls for better development planning for a sustainable Kulai.“Among them are upgrading drainage systems in certain areas and building more water retention ponds,” he said.

Mohd Fahmi said that only Bandar Indahpura and Desa Idaman were still considered major flood hotspots.

“We are still monitoring these areas closely.

“If these areas can withstand heavy rain without becoming flooded for at least three more times, they may be removed as flood hotspots,” he said after the MPKu full board meeting.

He said that with the rainy season approaching, the local council had started making flood preparations.

“We have response teams from the Southern Volunteers on standby to ensure that evacuation and distribution of aid can be done in a proper and timely manner,” said Mohd Fahmi.

Meanwhile, on another matter, MPKu councillor Wong Pow Kyan said more attention should be given towards development planning to avoid future problems.

“With the district’s rapid development, town planning is crucial as we upgrade existing infrastructure.

“This will avoid problems faced by states where there is a lack of water due to overdevelopment.

“We need to have a long-term plan to ensure that there are ample resources and infrastructure for Kulai, for the next 20 to 30 years,” he said.