THE new Jelutong diversion under the Sungai Pinang flood mitigation project is still under consideration by the Sungai Pinang Flood Mitigation Technical Committee (DID), state Transport and Infrastructure Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said.
Answering a question raised by Batu Lancang assemblyman Ong Ah Teong, Zairil (PH – Tanjung Bunga) said several factors were still being considered before the state could give the green light for physical works to begin.
It was previously learnt that the diversion would involve Jalan Tan Sri Teh Ewe Lim and Jalan Ahmad Nor and its main purpose is to help ease the flood issues surrounding those two areas.
“For example, one of the factors is trying to finalise a suitable location within the two vicinities.
“This part of the state is full of high-rise buildings and it is an important factor that needs attention as well,” Zairil said during his speech at the State Legislative Assembly sitting today.
In response, Ong (PH – Batu Lancang) asked if the state government has an alternative and temporary measure while waiting for the Jelutong diversion to commence.
“This is important because these two vicinities (Jalan Tan Sri Teh Ewe Lim and Jalan Ahmad Nor) are highly populated by people and we need at least an alternative move to curb the flood issues here,” Ong said.
Zairil then said the state government is currently considering a suggestion from related parties to build a parallel drain from Hilir Sungai Air Itam to the bridge in Jalan Patani.
“This will refrain the waters from the drains flowing into the river. Also, this move will help ease the flood issues on a temporary basis and avoid river pollution.
“For now, this is the alternative that the state government is considering,” Zairil added.
Story by Kevin Vimal