STAPANG – The Selangau District Civil Defence Force (APM Selangau) has been involved in flood monitoring activities in several high-risk areas along the Batang Oya River in Stapang due to heavy rainfall.
The monitoring activity, conducted on Sunday, targeted areas that have been identified as being prone to flooding because of their closeness to the Batang Oya River. Based on the results obtained by APM, the general water level of the Batang Oya River is declining, providing some much-needed relief after days of worry for the surrounding communities.
However, despite the reduction in the river levels, it was reported that some low-lying roads in the area are still flooded. The depth of the floodwater in the flooded road sections was measured to be between ankle depth and 1.5 to 2 feet.
The roads affected include Jalan Tajam to Tabalong, Jalan Nanga Tamin, and Jalan Tabalong to Sungai Alat. These roads are frequently used by the people and are considered crucial routes for connectivity between villages and the surrounding areas.
APM has confirmed that Jalan Ensurai to Tabalong is still open and passable for all kinds of vehicles. However, the condition of some roads leading to Nanga Tamin has not yet improved and is still impassable at the time of inspection.
The monitoring exercise was part of the normal flood preparedness and response efforts undertaken by APM, which are activated whenever there is prolonged rainfall. The initiative is meant to ensure public safety, accessibility, and the provision of early warnings to communities whose rivers may be affected.
While some road access is still affected, APM reported that there have been no threats to residential areas or evacuations required as yet. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation, especially in areas where the water has not yet receded.
The flood monitoring of the Batang Oya River and other major rivers is an essential part of disaster risk management in the state of Sarawak, where the seasonal rainfall can cause rapid effects on transportation and settlements.
APM Selangau again reiterated that the situation may change depending on weather developments. The residents living along the riverbanks and flood-prone roads are advised to be alert and not to travel through flooded routes, even if the water level seems shallow.
The Selangau APM Public Relations and Documentation Unit stressed the need for public cooperation, especially in following road closures and safety warnings. The authorities also urged the public to stay updated through official announcements and to report any sudden changes in water levels.
As part of its dedication to community safety, APM continues to live by its guiding principle of “Ready, Fast, With Integrity”, ensuring that response teams are ready to respond if conditions worsen in the days ahead.
