Communities along the Ilog-Hilabangan River in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, can now be safer with concrete walls built by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), for slope protection and flood mitigation.
These include the construction of the 342-lineal meter concrete slope protection, worth P89.26 million, along the upstream of Approach A of Ilog Bridge, specifically in Barangay Talubangi, and another 302.4-lineal meter structure, amounting to P84.75 million, along the upstream of Approach B of the bridge, in Barangay Linao, both in Kabankalan City.
Undertaken by the DPWH Negros Occidental 3rd District Engineering Office, these flood mitigation projects aim to protect the lives, properties, and livelihood of the people along the river.
District engineer Rodney Gustilo said these structures are an addition to the 294.8-lineal meter structure built along the river, specifically in Barangay Orong, that was completed in August last year.
DPWH6 director Sanny Boy Oropel said that flood control structures are essential in mitigating the devastating effects of floods on communities and infrastructure.
These will manage the flow of water in rivers, streams, and other bodies of water during periods of heavy rains or high-water levels, prevent flooding by confining the water and directing it away from populated areas.
“These flood control structures are built to ensure the safety of residents, and their homes and properties, and sources of livelihood from sudden water rise, especially when heavy rains or typhoons occur,” Oropel said in a statement July 12, adding the concrete walls will likewise prevent the erosion of river banks, hence protecting roads and bridges from being easily damaged, and ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow. ||
