Be alert on hillslopes

Be alert on hillslopes
Wednesday December 10, 2008
By Simon Khoo

KUANTAN: Residents living near hillslopes should alert local authorities if they spot any earth movements, says state Health, Local Government and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Hoh Khai Mun.

He said, due to a shortage in manpower, the local councils could not carry out regular inspections at all hilly areas.

“Due to the current rainy season, I urge all residents in hilly areas to be more vigilant as they are exposed to the danger of landslides.

“If there are any reports of earth movements, we will send in an inspection team and take the necessary action promptly,” he said in an interview.

Hoh was asked to comment on the massive landslide in Bukit Antarabangsa, Kuala Lumpur, which claimed four lives and injured at least 15 other residents.

Hoh said, so far, Pahang was yet to compile detailed statistics on landslide-prone areas.

He said that local authorities would act on reports on a case-by-case basis.

“There have been reports of minor landslides and landslips in Cameron Highlands and Fraser’s Hill.

“We hope that members of the public will alert us so that we can prevent tragedies or the loss of lives,” he said.

Hoh said the Pahang government was strict in the issuance of permits for projects on hillsides and there would be no development on slopes exceeding the stipulated gradient.

On preparation for floods, he said that special committees chaired by the respective district officers had been set up in all 14 districts to monitor the situation.

“We have been lucky this year as there has been no reports of severe flooding so far.

“However, we are in yellow alert as the rain is getting heavier and are ready for any eventualities,” he said, adding that the flood-prone areas were in Kuantan, Pekan, Maran, Jerantut and Temerloh. -- The Star