Malaysia, Johor: Even when it doesn’t rain, it floods

Mohd Fahmi Mohd Yusof New Straits Times 12 Apr 12;

Several areas in Kota Tinggi are often flooded during high tide at Sungai Johor and residents are worried the situation will get worse

AN inefficient drainage system and the public’s littering habit have caused several areas here to be easily flooded during high tide, even though there is no rain.

A recent check at the intersection of Jalan Tun Sri Lanang revealed that water began to flood the area at about 12.30pm and the condition continued until 3.30pm, with the water coming from the underground drains, believed to be backflow from Sungai Johor during high tide.

Shazlan Karim, 28, said the phenomenon often occurred during high tide.

“Besides the poorly maintained drainage system, I blame members of the public who throw rubbish all over the place, causing the drains to be clogged.

“The authorities should also play their parts by maintaining the drains properly so that this problem does not recur. This time, it may not be serious but what if it rains heavily,” said Shazlan.

He said the public should also not throw rubbish into drains to prevent them from being clogged up.

Trader Hashim Masood, 36, urged the authorities to act on the problems immediately before the situation gets worse, like the floods that hit the district several years ago.