A DETAILED design study for the proposed flood mitigation project in the Sungai Lahar Endin basin is currently underway and is expected to be completed by December this year, says Zairil Khir Johari (PH-Tanjong Bungah).
The state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman said the Penang Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) had appointed a consultant to carry out the study aimed at determining suitable mitigation methods to reduce flood risks in the area.
“The study is currently at the conceptual design stage,” he said when replying to a question by Bukhori Ghazali (PN-Pinang Tunggal) during the Penang State Legislative Assembly sitting today.
Zairil, who answered on behalf of Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, said temporary flood prevention measures were also being carried out in hotspot areas while awaiting the implementation of the project.
He said DID was undertaking riverbank upgrading and desilting works under the River Conservation Programme to reduce flood risks at Sungai Lahar Tiang and Sungai Tembus.
“Currently, the Sungai Lahar Endin basin flood mitigation project has yet to commence.
“The proposed physical works will only be implemented once the detailed design study has been fully completed,” he added.
On a separate matter, Zairil said the proposed upgrading of Jalan Bawah Penaga, including the construction of a new bridge, is currently at the in-house design stage by the Public Works Department (PWD).
He said the tender for contractor procurement is expected to be called in the second quarter of 2027, while physical works are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of the same year.
According to him, the project is aimed at improving the road network between Pasir Gebu and Penaga by creating a more conducive route that would reduce travelling time and improve access to public amenities such as markets, schools and parks.
“The alternative route is also expected to improve road safety and spur local economic activities in the surrounding areas,” he said, when replying to a question by Yusni Mat Piah (PN-Penaga).
However, Zairil noted that the project design has yet to be finalised and no engagement sessions with residents have been conducted by JKR so far.
“As such, detailed public feedback has not yet been obtained,” he added.
Story by Edmund Lee