TANJUNG MALIM, Aug 25 – The Perak state government plans to install warning sirens along Sungai Slim to ensure residents are better prepared for disasters, particularly floods and water surges.
State Infrastructure, Energy, Water and Public Transport Committee chairman Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin said the Department of Irrigation and Drainage is currently assessing suitable locations for the sirens under the National Flood Forecasting and Warning Programme (PRAB).
“The implementation of PRAB will provide ample time for government agencies and residents to take early action in the event of flooding,” he told reporters after inspecting the Slim Village Bridge, which collapsed due to a water surge incident on Friday.
Also present were Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang, who is also Tanjung Malim Member of Parliament, and Perak Water Board (LAP) general manager Lokman Abd Rahim.
Continuous heavy rain since Friday afternoon caused flooding and a water surge, leading to the collapse of three bridges, damage to the water intake structure of the Sungai Geliting water treatment plant, and hundreds of residents being trapped.