Kampung Bakam villagers worry over riverbank erosion, speeding motorists

MIRI: Residents of Kampung Bakam are worried over erosion at the village’s riverbank which endangers those living nearby, says Sarawak PAS commissioner Jofri Jaraiee.

According to him, those affected are appealing to the state government to construct a wall along the banks of the river to prevent erosion caused by the rapid flow of river water.

“They (villagers) said heavy rainfall has caused flash floods and also eroded the soil on the banks of the river which damaged their kitchens. They want the authorities to immediately solve this erosion problem as it may threaten the safety of the population, especially with the current rainy season.”

In addition to that, Jofri said the villagers also requested the relevant authorities to build speed bumps along the Kampung Bakam’s internal access roads to address motorists who travel at speed along the roads, which puts the safety the villagers at risk.

“We urge the government and those concerned to take immediate action to address the problems of Kampung Bakam residents so that they can live in a prosperous and safe environment.

“The cooperation of the authorities to address these issues is greatly appreciated.”

Responding to the matter when contacted by The Borneo Post yesterday, Sibuti MP Datuk Ahmad Lai Bujang said the village community leader, Penghulu Adam Bujang, and his men had already gone to the ground to assess the situation.

“The Kampung Bakam riverbank erosion problem is actually now under the attention of the Department of Irrigation and Drainage ( DID).

“The DID will of course look for means to address the matter effectively. In addition to that, there are also other similar cases which have to be given priority, such as the erosion of beaches.”

On the request for speed bumps, the MP explained that speed bumps have in fact already been built for the village.

“If there is a need for additional speed bumps for the village, the people can submit an application with the consent of the house owners or the villagers.”