Penang govt allocates over RM8m for flood mitigation works

GEORGE TOWN: The Penang government has approved about RM8.86 million to upgrade drainage and flood mitigation projects by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) this year.
Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng (pix) said of the allocation, RM5.86 million was for the Jalan Transfer and Jalan Hutton flood mitigation project and drainage upgrading.
He said they have always strived to tackle the flood issue in the state as many areas which did not experience floods in the past were inundated with water during heavy rainfall.
This happened due to the change in weather which was unpredictable, he added.
He also acknowledged the federal government's effort in approving a RM150million fund for the mitigation project in Sungai Pinang.
"We want to ensure the flood issue can be solved," he said in his speech at the launch of the flood mitigation project in Jalan Transfer and Lebuh Hutton today.
Lim also suggested that the state look to increase the fine of RM500 to RM5,000 for anyone caught littering next year.
However, this matter was still in the early stage as the state would have to hold further discussions with local councils, he added.
Alos present were state local government, traffic and flood mitigation committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow and MBPP mayor Datuk Patahiyah Ismail.