BETONG: The incessant rain yesterday caused a flash flood incident at P Roundabout, Batang Skrang (CH88 + 200) Package 4 work contract of the Pan Borneo Highway.
Public Works Department (PWD) Sarawak said the heavy rain since May 23 has caused water level in Batang Skrang river to overflow, leading to flooding in several areas around the location.
“In addition to that, the phenomenon of a high tide also caused the large volume of rainwater to fail to flow into Batang Skrang River, resulting the water to flow back to the land areas and causing the flash flood,” it said in a statement.
As an immediate measure, PWD Sarawak said the department’s Sri Aman and Betong Divisions promptly installed flood benchmark as warning signs along the affected location.
“The contractors have also dispatched two Emergency Response Teams from the Kuching-Sibu and Sibu-Kuching, while a backhoe has been stationed near the affected location to be on standby for any necessary actions,” it said.
It added as of 5pm yesterday, the flood situation has begun to recede, and some vehicles were seen passing through the road.
“However, the public is advised to drive carefully when passing through the affected areas and always prioritise their own safety and that of other road users”.
