Gagasan Rakyat leader urges DID to upgrade Tambunan drainage systems

Tambunan Irrigation and Drainage Department (DID) has been urged by Victor P Paut, the coordinator of Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah (Gagasan Rakyat) in Tambunan, to enhance the cleaning and maintenance of drainage systems in the area. The aim is to minimize the risks of flash floods in Kampung Maras Karas and Kampung Minudong within the Toboh sub-district.

Victor pointed out that clogged and inefficient drainage systems are among the contributing factors to the flooding incidents in the two villages. He mentioned that drains and ditches along the main road are frequently blocked by rubbish, silt, and plant debris, obstructing the smooth flow of surface runoff during heavy rainfall.

When heavy rain falls, surface runoff often fails to flow smoothly into the drains, resulting in water overflowing onto roads within a short time frame. Additionally, some existing irrigation systems are outdated and undersized, making them unable to cope with the sudden surge in rainwater volume, Victor said during a visit to the affected area.

Over 25 houses, comprising approximately 30 families, were impacted by the recent flooding and suffered losses. Victor, who is also the deputy chairman of Sawit Kinabalu and Borneo Samudera, called for a thorough inspection of the drainage systems in flood-prone areas to identify locations that require upgrading to ensure efficient water flow during heavy rains.

He emphasized the importance of regular maintenance and cleaning works, not just after flooding occurs, to reduce the likelihood of similar incidents, as the area is frequently flooded during heavy rainfall.