By Aida Aziz
BATU GAJAH: A drain that has been covered with a pallet for years near Kampung Baru Desa Changkat has not only posed a danger but has also caused flooding problems.
One resident, B. Nishalini, claimed that she had filed several complaints to the local authorities, the Batu Gajah District Council (MDBG), but no action has been taken.
She added that the pallet used to cover the drain, which leads to a mining pond, had rotted and fallen into the drain, causing a severe blockage.
As a result, water cannot flow properly during heavy rain, leading to flooding in the area, with residents’ homes being flooded multiple times.
“My husband went to MDBG to report the issue, and a contractor was appointed to inspect the drain area. But until now, no cleaning or improvement work has been done to prevent this from happening again,” she told Ipoh Echo and Peraktastic.
She further explained that the flood in December last year took a long time to subside due to the improper drainage flow.
“They only covered the drain with a pallet, not concrete or metal, which is dangerous, especially for children passing through the area,” she said.
In addition, the issue of garbage has also been a problem as no trash bins are provided.
Residents have to go to Pusing near Lahat to dispose of their waste in large bins there.
“Our hope is that the drain is cleaned first before being covered with safer materials. When the drain is blocked, it also causes a foul smell, which is unpleasant.
“I hope the local authorities or anyone responsible will take action. Don’t wait until something serious happens before taking action. We want this area to be cleaned as soon as possible,” she concluded.
