Tiong (right) points to the existing monsoon drain in the area that needs to be upgraded.
BINTULU: Bintulu Development Authority (BDA) has been called on to conduct a detailed and strict review of any construction plans before they are implemented.
In doing so, BDA must maintain close communication with the contractors involved in order to minimise adverse impact on the people, Bintulu member of Parliament Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said.
“We cannot wait for every public complaint before reacting to solve an arising issue,” he said in a statement following is site visit to a construction project in Tanjung Batu on Wednesday.
Officers from BDA, Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), Public Works Department (JKR) and Land and Survey Department were also present to check on the situation, as the public had raised concern that the construction works could affect a nearby monsoon drain and the flood mitigation system.
“The agencies that visited the site with me this morning (Wednesday) will hold a meeting on Feb 18 on this specific topic to discuss the relevant issues. I hope they are able to provide some answers to the ongoing situation after that.
“I hope BDA will ensure that the consensus reached in any meeting with the contractors will be adhered to,” he said.
According to Tiong, in order to facilitate upgrades to the flood mitigation system and ensure the existing monsoon drain is not blocked, the developer has been advised to temporarily halt construction works until a new detailed plan for the area is submitted and approved by the relevant authorities.
“I have subsequently requested BDA to also advise the developer to clear the surrounding area of discarded building materials and other rubbish.
“Ensuring the monsoon drain and flood mitigation system is clear of blockages is in the community’s interests and in line with Bintulu’s sustainable and viable development.
“The BDA must also supervise the developer’s construction projects as well. Any project plans that had been erroneously approved previously, should be reviewed and given re-approval only if the proper plans are filed,” he added.
He pointed out that during his meetings with the relevant departments a few months ago, he had already requested for the related construction projects to be halted temporarily until they are satisfied that the construction project will not reduce the effectiveness of the monsoon drain and the flood mitigation system.
The drainage system, he added, will remain congested due to construction works and flood near residential areas, disrupting the lives of people living and working here.
He said BDA must require the relevant developer to revise the project’s plans properly and obtain the DID’s approval.
“The current project must also include dredging and widening the ditch.
“It is imperative that any developer should consult the relevant authorities before implementing any project to ensure that the construction plans are reviewed and approved by the BDA,” he said.
Tiong believes that only a long-term and comprehensive plan can mitigate any future changes to the surrounding environment.