ALOR GAJAH: Seven flood mitigation projects (RTB) are currently underway in Melaka, involving a total allocation of RM1.006 billion, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. Fadillah, who is also the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, stated that one of the projects is the Alor Gajah RTB Phase 1 in Kampung Tebat, with an allocation of RM30 million. The project features the construction of flood retention ponds and water channels to improve water flow to the river. Embankments are also being built to prevent flooding in low-lying areas. Upon completion, the project is expected to safeguard approximately 1,270 residents from floods.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Alor Gajah project, which began on August 16, 2022, is progressing smoothly and is anticipated to be completed by August 2025. The other six projects include the Sungai Melaka RTB Phase 1 in Durian Tunggal, costing RM40 million, and the Krubong-Durian Tunggal Flood Mitigation Pond Upgrade Project, which will serve
a dual purpose for flood mitigation and water resource management, at a cost of RM603 million. Additionally, the Sungai Duyong RTB is allocated RM163.8 million.

Further projects include the Bandar Merlimau RTB at RM36 million, the Bandar Jasin RTB at RM60 million, and the Sungai Putat RTB at RM72.83 million. Earlier, Fadillah attended a handover ceremony of completed projects by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage to the Melaka government at the Alor Gajah Municipal Council. These completed initiatives, amounting to RM28.6 million, include the River Mouth Conservation Projects at Sungai Baru and Sungai Punggor, the Telok Gong Coastal Erosion Prevention Project, and the Installation and Upgrade of Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for the National Hydrological Network stations. Additionally, the Construction of Telemetry Hydrology Stations for Phase 2 of the National Flood Forecasting and Warning Programme was completed.