Tackling disasters: Saarani (third from right) with state exco member Salbiah Mohamad (with red scarf) and other officials inspecting the tents that were damaged in a recent storm at Ipoh Night Market, Ipoh. — Bernama
Geo-disaster system to help with flood management
IPOH: A new geo-disaster system has been developed by the state government to help with flood management, says Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
He said the system is equipped with a Geographic Information System (GIS), which provides information regarding various complex issues such as infrastructure development, natural resources and environmental land management.
“Together with the information regarding land structures, the integration of these two will help related agencies and departments to identify and monitor areas that are at risk,” he told reporters after the launching of the Geospatial Aspiration programme at the state secretariat building here yesterday.
Saarani said the system was initiated by the State Secretary Datuk Ahmad Suadi Abdul Rahim.
“We believe that the move will have a significant impact on the efficiency and the effectiveness of disaster management, especially floods, and it can also be accessed via smartphones.
“Among the new features added are the listed evacuation centres and related agencies can also check on the number of rescued victims.
“While it can be accessed by the public, only government departments and agencies have full access to the system,” he said, adding that the GIS also provides information that could boost the state’s economy.
“It can also help with mapping fishing areas which will contribute to increasing fishermen’s catch, as well as increasing food resources and improving their economy,” he said.
