PETALING JAYA: An environmental group in Cameron Highlands has raised concerns over mud floods along roads and neighbourhoods in Tanah Rata whenever heavy rains occurred.

       Regional Environmental Awareness Cameron Highlands president Dilip Martin claimed that the floods along Jalan Jasar were due to soil dumping along Jalan Tengkolok, which had caused the stream below to be clogged.

       “The clogged stream, which connects to the Jasar river, would be unable to handle the flow during heavy rain, hence causing more water to enter the river and later overflow.

       “Residents who live in the area have also raised concerns on muddy water entering their compounds as well,” he said, adding that checks at the site in Jalan Tengolok also found no culverts near the stream.

       Dilip added that he had brought the matter to the attention of the Cameron Highlands Drainage and Irrigation Department in August 2020 and March this year.

       The department confirmed the flood incident but said that it had occurred due to clogged drains.

       “We did receive complaints from residents and road users in the area and upon checking the site during rain, found that it was caused by rubbish clogged drains,” said a spokesperson.

       He said action has since been taken with cleaning of the outlets being part of the measures implemented by the team, adding that checks at the site also showed that the banks were still able to contain heavy water flow during heavy or prolonged rains.

       “Despite this, we have still taken action to deepen ditches to ensure it can catch water flowing down from the hills during rain,” he said.

       The spokesperson added that a contractor was also appointed last month for these works with the project set to complete next month.

       “We will continue to monitor the site during heavy rains,” he said.