By Aida Aziz
Photo APM Perak
BAGAN SERAI: The flood situation in the Kerian district is taking time to recede due to prolonged heavy rain, said Menteri Besar Perak, Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
He mentioned that the scenario is similar to what occurred in Hilir Perak, compounded by the Northeast Monsoon affecting the country.
Saarani stated that he has instructed the Kerian Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS) to take immediate action by pumping out water in affected areas to ensure a swift reduction in floodwaters.
“Cleanup work on victims’ houses, if needed, will be carried out by volunteers once the flood subsides.
“The flood situation in Perak, involving three districts, Kerian, Hilir Perak, and Kinta is reported to be improving, with two out of six evacuation centers (PPS) being closed since yesterday.
“The two closed PPS are at the Chikus Multipurpose Hall in Hilir Perak and the Public Hall of Kampung Seri Kinta in the Kinta District.
“Meanwhile, four others are still open at SK Changkat Lobak and SK Alor Pongsu in Kerian, Padang Tembak Multipurpose Hall in Hilir Perak, and the Public Hall of Meru 2A in Kinta District,” he said after inspecting flood victims in the Kerian district here today.
As of today, he mentioned that 178 victims from 52 families are still accommodated in all relevant PPS.
Despite overall improvement in the flood situation, Saarani directed all involved departments and agencies to remain vigilant due to the unpredictable weather.
“Today, I visited the PPS at SK Alor Pongsu, which has been open since October 30, accommodating 57 victims from 19 families affected by floods in four villages, Kampung Selekoh, Kampung Beriai, Kampung Parit Air Hitam 2, and Kampung Parit Ali Kalang,” he added.
To alleviate the burden on the affected families, government aid of RM300 has been distributed and he personally contributed RM300 and essential items to the affected families.
Coordination is underway to enable victims to receive additional assistance from the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA).
