By Zaki MS
IPOH – Continuous rain for about an hour from around 12.30pm today caused water to overflow, resulting in recurring flash floods along Jalan Gopeng towards Ipoh.
The situation was reported particularly around Lotus’s Pulai Heights, the Simpang Pulai stretch and Taman Soon Choon.
Although parts of the drainage system in the area have reportedly been upgraded, the flooding problem continues to recur whenever heavy rain occurs.
Road users claimed that the existing drainage system is no longer capable of handling the sudden increase in surface water during prolonged rainfall.
According to them, the drains along the road still have capacity based on outdated requirements.
This has caused water flow to slow down, subsequently resulting in water overflowing onto the road shoulders and road surface.
Ipoh Echo received complaints from road users who said they were frustrated with the recurring issue.
Saiful Kamal said flash flooding in the area was not a new problem and required a comprehensive solution.
He urged the relevant agencies to formulate a strategic plan as the issue had persisted for years.
Meanwhile, Justin Wong said drainage upgrading works should be carried out comprehensively rather than being limited to specific locations.
He said the situation was also a cause for concern among road users, particularly during heavy rain and when visibility was limited.
Grab driver Norazli Musa hoped the authorities and utility operators would conduct on-site inspections to identify the actual cause of the problem and take immediate action.
Road users also urged the relevant technical agencies to play their respective roles in ensuring that the drainage system along the route matches current needs.
Among the agencies expected to take action are the Perak Public Works Department (JKR), Ipoh City Council (MBI) and the Kinta District Department of Irrigation and Drainage (JPS).
They hope the chronic issue can be resolved through coordinated action to reduce the risk of flash flooding while ensuring the safety and smooth movement of road users.
