Special task force key to addressing drainage, flood problems in Miri — Lee

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The inspection team checking on monsoon drains at the housing area.

MIRI: All government agencies related to the technical sector here should set up their respective special task forces.

Assistant Minister of Communications Datuk Lee Kim Shin suggested that agencies
such as Public Works Department (JKR), Miri City Council, Drainage and Irrigation Department, Land and Survey Department and Resident’s Office have their own teams in addressing the flood problems faced by the locals.

“One place that needs urgent attention is the Eco Park 2, where flash floods occur every time there’s a downpour due to problems with the drainage system.

“This has caused much inconvenience to the residents,” he told reporters during a site inspection at Eco Park 2, Jalan Sze Chuan 2 off Miri Airport Road here yesterday.

Lee, who is also Senadin assemblyman, said for now excavation works were being carried out as a temporary mitigation measure.

“Works on retention ponds by the Drainage and Irrigation (Department) are now in progress, while the council and Land and Survey team are studying the land status,” he said, assuring the public that there were long-term plans to address the drainage problem at flood-prone areas in the city.

Taking into account the current monsoon season, which is expected to continue till next February, Lee deemed that the setup of special task force teams as highly necessary.

During the inspection, Eco Park resident Caryn Chung Han Yin got the chance to meet Lee and talked about her house being hit by flash flood on Dec 1, damaging her property.

She told Lee that she was seeking compensation from the developer for her heavy losses.

In response, the assistant minister advised Chung to discuss the matter with the company.

“On our side, we are working
out with relevant departments to form a task force in looking
into these problems, including flash floods,” he reiterated to Chung.