IPOH: The drainage system at Cameron Highlands needs to be upgraded as it is one of the factors causing landslides there, says an environmentalist.

       AR Dilip Martin, president of Regional Environmental Awareness Cameron Highlands, said over-development has affected the highlands and its drainage system that is already 30 years old.

       The drainage system can no longer accommodate the amount of water coming from new development areas, he added.

       He believes that the spillover from overflowing drains would seep into the ground, further destabilising it and causing soil erosion.

       “Heavy rainfall is already washing away soil from exposed areas due to development.

       “The highlands, especially near Brinchang, will be hit with flash floods whenever it rains heavily.

       “The district council and the Drainage and Irrigation Department need to look into this matter seriously. I think a good drainage system is a basic thing that cannot be overlooked,” Dilip Martin said.

       A man was hurt after the car he was travelling in was hit by a falling tree during a landslide near Tanah Rata on Monday.

       The authorities report that new soil movements were detected in several areas near Tanah Rata.