MMDA urges local gov’t to revive Aklan River

By BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has urged the local government to implement flood control projects here.

"The dredging of Aklan River and excavation of basins can prevent the destructive flooding experienced by 70,000 residents last June 21. Buhayin natin ang Aklan River," MMDA Head for Aklan Provincial Operations Aldo Mayor said.

At least P930 million worth of public utilities, infrastructure and agriculture crops were destroyed by Typhoon “Frank” in Kalibo. Five persons were killed by flood.

"Almost all low-lying areas near the Aklan River could be flooded if the municipal government would not address the flood problems," he said.

The construction of protective dikes, the dredging of the mouth of Aklan River in Brgys. Bakhaw Sur and Bakhaw Norte and the improvement of river channel would prevent deaths of thousands of villagers and minimize the impact of flood to businesses, Mayor stressed.

He also recommended the reconstruction of clogged drainages in Brgy. Poblacion and the purchase of flood control equipment.

Kalibo Mayor Raymar Rebaldo said he had sought the assistance of MMDA in deploying 35 heavy equipments and 150 personnel to assist in the rehabilitation of infrastructures in Kalibo.

The MMDA contingents helped in cleaning the streets, public market and schools of thick mud and debris.

"We are still accepting donations to support the relief operations for areas severely damaged by typhoon "Frank," he said.

Rebaldo also urged the Aklan Electric Cooperative (Akelco) to install siren to warn the residents against flood./PN