By Maqrydel S. Flores
PALO, Leyte, Aug. 2 (PNA) – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) committed to complete Bangon River flood control project after it was stalled after the 2013 disaster.
DPWH Regional Director Rolando M. Asis said the construction of the remaining two kilometers of river control infrastructure is scheduled within this month. The project covers Purisima village to some portion of St. Michael village.
The DPWH issued a resumption order on July 1, 2015 and the contractor is now mobilizing its equipment and other resources.
“Project is targeted to be completed on or before end of December, barring unforeseen events beyond man’s control,” Asis told PNA.
Asis said the existence of house obstructions made it difficult for the equipment to reach the project site, which is the main reason why the project was suspended.
Moreover, a change on the design will be implemented in line with the tide embankment project.
The local government is more than willing to cooperate with DPWH to finish the project for the safety of the people during flooding and typhoons.
Residents have been asking the government to complete the project for fear of flooding.
“It’s really hard for us since we’re the most affected during rainy days. It’s really not safe here, so we barely need an immediate action to this project,” said one resident Elsa Bacatano.
The project, which was stopped after super typhoon Yolanda struck late 2013, includes dredging and concreting of river embankment.
To recall, after March 17, 2011 flooding, Mayor Remedios Petilla immediately asked assistance from the national government for the construction of river control and maintain the condition of the Bernard Reed Bridge over the Bangon River.
On Dec. 27 of the same year, another flood hit the town forcing people residing along the river banks to evacuate to safer grounds.
The project started in 2012 with a budget of PHP207.5 million. However, the construction of the project was suspended after the onslaught of super typhoon Yolanda. (PNA)