Bigger dams, more ponds, river dredging: KL and Selangor plan five flood fixes on the table

Kuala Lumpur and Selangor are teaming up to address flood issues in the Klang Valley, outlining a five-point plan to improve water management. Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari and Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh announced the joint effort, emphasizing the need to coordinate water flow from Hulu Selangor through Kuala Lumpur and into the southern Klang Valley areas.

Key components of the plan involve assessing dam capacities, constructing new retention ponds, and dredging rivers. Discussions will include evaluating the capacity of Batu Dam and Klang Gate Dam to handle water needs for the next 20 to 30 years, as well as identifying potential sites for new flood-retention ponds upstream, such as Kampung Laksamana Pond, Sungai Kertas Pond, and Bukit Lagong.

The latter site may face challenges due to its location within a forest reserve. River dredging and sediment removal efforts will also be coordinated, with the Kuala Lumpur Department of Irrigation and Drainage assisting in finding a suitable 30-acre site in Selangor for disposing of dredged materials. The plan aims to reduce flood risks, enhance urban resilience, and ease residents' concerns during the rainy season.

Both administrations plan to detail the measures before the next parliamentary session and Budget 2027, with regular progress updates and issue resolutions.