Unresolved culvert issue fuels flooding fears in Keningau’s Kpg Sandapak

KENINGAU (Feb 1): Recurrent flooding in Kampung Sandapak continues to worry residents, especially since the longstanding issue of a small and frequently clogged culvert remains unresolved despite approval having been granted for repair and upgrading works.

Residents claimed the situation becomes increasingly critical during heavy rain when Sungai Kisaging overflows due to the culvert failing to cope with the large volume of water.

The undersized culvert is also often blocked by wood debris during prolonged rainfall, causing water to spill into residential areas, particularly houses located near the river.

A resident Geofred Daigo said the situation occurs whenever there is heavy rain, resulting in floodwaters up to knee level entering his home and damaging kitchen appliances and electrical equipment.

“This problem is not new. Every time there is heavy rain, the culvert gets blocked and water rises straight into the housing area. We are worried because flooding can happen suddenly,” he lamented.

Meanwhile, Kampung Sandapak village development and security committee (JKKK) chairman Rayner Adrian Eswar Munting confirmed that approval for repair and upgrading works had been granted some time ago.

“However, to date, work on the ground has yet to commence as it is still awaiting action from the appointed contractor.

“This has raised questions among villagers regarding the timeline for implementation and the monitoring mechanism after project approval, as public safety risks remain as long as the root problem is not addressed,” he stressed.

The affected residents are now urging the Department of Irrigation and Drainage and Keningau District Office to provide clear explanations on the actual status of the project implementation, including the timeline for contractor appointment and expected start date of works.

They are also calling for immediate interim measures to prevent further flooding incidents.

According to Geofred, as long as the issue is not resolved comprehensively, the approvals that have been granted have little real meaning for grassroots communities, who continue to face the risk of property damage and safety threats whenever heavy rain occurs.