By Aida Aziz
GOPENG : A total of 69 people from 20 families have been relocated to a temporary relief centre (PPS) at Dewan Bandaran Gopeng following a flash flood incident that struck Kampung Ulu Geruntum on Friday.
Teja state assemblywoman Sandrea Ng said the incident caused two bridges to be cut off, disrupting access in and out of the village.
“Due to safety concerns as the river current remained strong last night, residents who were stranded were not evacuated immediately.
“However, after taking into account the current situation, including water supply disruptions caused by pipelines being swept away by the strong currents, as well as the possibility of continued bad weather, the Kampar District Disaster Management Committee decided today to open a temporary relief centre at Dewan Bandaran Gopeng.
“Fortunately, the operation to evacuate stranded residents was successfully carried out this morning with the assistance of personnel from the Gopeng Fire and Rescue Station, who used inflatable rafts. A pregnant woman was also safely evacuated,” she said after visiting the site yesterday to assess the situation and coordinate efforts with relevant agencies.
Overall, 69 victims from 20 families are now being housed at the relief centre, and Ng said she is ensuring that all necessary assistance is provided while coordination among agencies remains smooth.
“Our immediate priority is to ensure the safety and welfare of all affected residents. Efforts are currently being coordinated to establish a temporary route and restore access as soon as possible, as the road is also used to reach SK Ulu Geruntum,” she added.
