SERIAN: Retaining walls are urgently needed in Kampung Hulu and Kampung Hilir here to prevent riverbank erosion, said Serian Member of Parliament (MP) Datuk Seri Richard Riot.
Riot said he had suggested a retaining wall along the two villages about two years ago and had previously written a letter requesting that the project be carried out, adding that the letter was sent to former prime ministers Tan Sri Muhyidddin Yassin and later to Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
The project did not start, possibly due to a change in the federal government, he said.
On Jan 18 this year, a section of the road near the river bank in Kampung Hilir collapsed due to heavy rain.
Following the incident, the MP submitted another letter to urge the relevant authorities to repair the collapsed road and also submitted a letter to the Premier’s office.
“Federal offices have already visited the site, and a report from the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) has been submitted.
“The state-level government has also taken an interest in the matter, with the Premier’s office being involved,” Riot added.
He said this when met by reporters after attending the Lembaga Amanah Kebajikan Islam Serian’s (LAKIS’) annual programme, ‘Berambeh Sungkei Serian,’ at the Serian Community Hall last night (Apr 13).
Riot commended DID Serian for its proactive approach on the matter and said all government departments in Serian have been equally involved.
“I must thank the DID Serian for giving priority to the matter. They have even disclosed the pricing. All the governmental departments in Serian are taking proactive steps,” he added.
He stressed that he has done his part and will continue to focus on the matter, highlighting the importance of urgent action to address the retaining wall project and the collapsed road.
Riot said he will write a letter to the federal government again after the Hari Raya celebrations.
