Penang Umno urges state gov't to mitigate floodings

NIBONG TEBAL: Penang Umno has urged the state government to carry out a comprehensive flood mitigation project to address the flash flood problem in the state.
Commenting on the floods that hit parts of the island after a downpour on Saturday, Penang Umno liaison committee chairman Datuk Zainal Abidin Othman said the state government should carry out a comprehensive flood mitigation project immediately for the sake of Penangites.
"I hope the state government makes the issue as first priority and settle it soonest.
"Do not take it easy. Do not push the responsibility to the federal government but settle themselves," he told reporters during a free fuel to motorists programme at Petronas Bandar Tasek Mutiara Station, Simpang Ampat here today.
On Saturday, the downpour triggered flash floods across Penang and caused traffic snarls.
Among areas affected were Jalan P. Ramlee, Sungai Ara, Relau, Bukit Jambul, Bayan Baru, Bandar Baru Air Itam, Jalan Masjid Negeri, Sungai Nibong, Paya Terubong and Sungai Dua.
Motorists were stuck along affected roads after a river burst its banks, causing a massive outflow of water into low lying areas.
Zainal Abidin added Penang Umno would take a "wait and see" approach to observe how the state government tackles the problem because DAP leaders had slammed the previous Barisan Nasional (BN) state government for not resolving the flood problems between 2006 and 2007.
"At that time, the DAP claimed that they would settle the flash flood matter well if they are given a mandate as the state government. So, they should fulfil their pledge and promises since they were elected by the people," he said.
Earlier in the event, Zainal Abidin said the free fuel programme, held by the Penang Umno Youth, gives a maximum of RM5 free fuel to each motorcyclist.
At the same time, Penang Umno Youth chief Rafizal Abdul Rahim said next free fuel programme would be held at Kepala Batas this month.