Sabo dams to tackle flooding in Baling would cost RM20 million, says Kedah MB

The Kedah Department of Drainage and Irrigation is currently evaluating the tender for the construction of two Sabo dams in Kampung Iboi, Baling. The purpose of these dams is to slow down the water flow from Gunung Inas into Sungai Kupang. The estimated cost for the construction is RM20 million.

Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, Menteri Besar, stated that aside from slowing down the water flow, the Sabo dams will also serve to trap debris such as logs and rocks that could cause damage to residential areas. He made this announcement on Tuesday (Oct 3).

In light of the recent flooding in Baling, the state government held a special meeting with relevant federal agencies on Oct 1. The meeting resulted in the decision to implement a three-phase flood mitigation plan in Baling. Muhammad Sanusi confirmed that plans for the first phase, estimated at RM15 million, are expected to be finalized by February next year. The second phase, with a cost of RM160 million, is currently undergoing tender evaluation. Furthermore, preparations for the third phase of the flood mitigation project, which will be included in the application for disaster management under the 12th Malaysia Plan, are in progress.

The recent floods have caused damage to three bridges in Kampung Padang Empang, Kampung Tanjung, and Kampung Iboi. The Baling district office will be responsible for repairing or rebuilding these bridges. Additionally, measures will be taken to address the affected slopes in Kampung Kepala Bukit, Kampung Tualang, and Sekolah Menengah Agama Yayasan Khairiah. Muhammad Sanusi announced that a new bridge worth RM3 million will be constructed in Kampung Padang Cina, and nine small concrete bridges will be built in various villages. All of these projects fall under the jurisdiction of the Kedah Implementation Coordination Unit.

Focusing on the damaged infrastructure, including collapsed slopes in several locations, the state government will allocate approximately RM5.6 million for repairs and restoration based on cost assessments. Muhammad Sanusi emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the numerous complaints received.

Last week’s flooding resulted in the evacuation of 650 victims to four temporary relief centres in Baling. This information was reported by Bernama.