KOTA BARU: The state government has ramped up its flood preparedness by readying 19,619 assets of various types ahead of the monsoon season.
Kelantan Mentri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud said the number of assets this year exceeded the 17,147 assets available last year.
He said these assets include vehicles, machinery, boats, tents, generators and other equipment, all of which are ready for use.
“The Meteorological Department has forecast that Kelantan will experience heavy rains starting next month until February next year.
“The welfare, well-being and safety of the people in this state during the monsoon season remain a top priority for the government,” he said in a statement, Bernama reported.
As part of the state’s preparations, 459 temporary evacuation centres (PPS) that can accommodate more than 186,000 flood victims have been identified across Kelantan – more than the 214 flood shelters opened last year.
Mohd Nassuruddin said the government would also ensure adequate food supplies and basic necessities, supported by a disaster supply depot, 17 disaster storage facilities and more than 160 forward bases throughout the state, all managed by the Social Welfare Department.
Additionally, the Irrigation and Drainage Department has prepared more than 100 rain and water level telemetry stations, 137 mobile pumps, 59 flood warning sirens, an agricultural dam and four retention ponds.
He said 7,209 personnel, including those from the Armed Forces, police, Civil Defence Force, Fire and Rescue Department and 10 other agencies are on standby.
He urged residents, especially those living in flood-prone areas, to remain vigilant and to follow the authorities’ instructions.
Mohd Nassuruddin said when a flood warning is issued, residents should immediately move to designated PPS or a safer location.
“I also ask that people store important documents, medications and essential supplies in an easily accessible place,” he said.
He further advised residents to avoid crossing flooded roads and to keep updated on weather conditions and information from official channels.
