MCC moves to improve drainage at Jalan Pujut 7–Sungai Miri junction to reduce flood risk
by Cindy Lai · Borneo Post OnlineMIRI (Jan 23): Mayor Adam Yii has directed the Miri City Council (MCC) to clear trees, vegetation and debris at the junction between the drainage canal along Jalan Pujut 7 and Sungai Miri as part of ongoing efforts to improve water flow and reduce the risk of recurring flash floods in the area.
Yii said the area has long experienced drainage problems, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall, following his recent inspection of the site.
He noted that he had personally conducted several site inspections and received on-site briefings from the service team.
“Through observations and comparisons over several days, we found that the water level in the drain rises and falls in tandem with the water level of Sungai Miri. When the river level is high, the drain is unable to discharge water effectively, increasing the risk of backflow,” he said.
He added that the issue is closely linked to extreme rainfall events and unusually high river water levels in recent years, which are associated with climate change.
Even so, Yii stressed, proactive measures must still be taken, that would include cleaning the drains.
The Pujut assemblyman said the clearing works would improve drainage efficiency, facilitate future maintenance and cleaning efforts, and minimise potential flood risks as much as possible.
He also assured that the council will continue to monitor the situation and implement gradual improvements, while encouraging residents to share feedback and information to support flood mitigation efforts.