KOTA KINABALU: A committee based in the state capital has been formed to handle and monitor the frequent flash floods in the state.

       Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin, who announced the decision, said the committee chaired by him would come up with solutions to resolve flash floods in Kota Kinabalu as well as other districts.

       This would be done via monitoring, enforcement, along with short and long term actions to solve the perennial problem, he said in a statement.

       “The committee will also coordinate action among related agencies, so that an integrated approach can be taken,” said Bung Moktar, who chaired the first meeting of the committee on Friday.

       The committee members comprise representatives from the Drainage and Irrigation Department, Public Works Department, Local Government and Housing Ministry and Kota Kinabalu City Hall.

       “The involvement of various agencies under this steering committee is crucial as the issue of flash floods is not a silo problem.

       “There are also various contributing factors besides the weather, which needed coordinated and smart action,” he added.

       The committee is also expected to be on the ground to study and identify the causes behind flash floods.

       It is also expected to come up with cost estimates for deepening a river or expanding drainage, for example.

       He said having a policy and an action plan with a focus on reducing flooding risks was required in future development planning.