MIRI – Rural communities in several parts of Sarawak have been cut off due to severe flooding.
The timber trails, which are the only linkages to nearby towns, have turned into dangerous mud streams, said environmental watchdog Baram Peoples Action Committee (BPAC).
BPAC chairman Philip Jau told The Vibes that committee members have received calls for help from affected folk.
“From the information I’ve received, there are many routes where the timber roads are in terrible condition today.
“The worst-affected routes in Baram district are the connecting roads to Long Laput, Temalak, Long Linai, Long Panai, Long Bemang, and all the way to the Bario highland.
“I also got information that the roads in Marudi and Tinjar districts are in very bad shape. Those travelling along these roads have found their vehicles trapped in the mud.
“They are stuck and cannot get out. I have been caught in that situation before, and it is scary. The mud can be up to a feet deep, and they are very slippery.
“If a sudden flash flood happens, those stuck in the mud streams can be swept away.”
He called on assemblymen and MPs to render immediate assistance, urging them to instruct the district-level Public Works Department to deploy tractors and excavators to quickly fix the roads.
Sarawak has been witnessing heavy rain and floods in the past week.
This morning, there were about 500 flood victims at temporary evacuation centres in Kuching and Serian. – The Vibes, January 18, 2021
