“Flood control” might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of Kuala Lumpur, but it’s a vital part of city planning. Today, we are standing at the RRIM Detention Pond. It is a key piece of infrastructure designed to mitigate flooding in Kuala Lumpur.
The Kuala Lumpur Flood Mitigation Scheme was commissioned in 2002. It aimed to solve the city’s frequent flooding issues. The RRIM Detention Pond plays a crucial role in this scheme. The scheme included the Batu/Jinjang Flood Retention Ponds and related flood diversions.
Here’s how it works. The RRIM Detention Pond helps to divert water from Sungai Gombak and Sungai Keroh. Sungai Gombak can discharge 275 cumec. Sungai Keroh can discharge 100 cumec. The pond reduces river flows in the city during heavy rain. This is designed to handle a 1 in 100-year flood event.
Bayu Pedoman Sdn Bhd and SMHB managed this project. Their job included cost evaluation and design review. The project included building the Batu and Jinjang Flood Detention Ponds. It also involved diversion channels and associated structures. The construction was based on a design-and-build approach.
The project commenced in August 2002. Construction was completed in May 2007. The entire project cost RM530 million. The Rubber Research Institute Malaysia is nearby. It adds to the area’s historical context.
However, flood retention ponds have faced challenges. There have been attempts to degazette ponds like Sungai Bunus. Degazettement means changing the land’s official designation. This could expose the land to development.
Protecting these ponds is crucial. They are vital for Kuala Lumpur’s flood mitigation. The Drainage and Irrigation Department and Kuala Lumpur City Hall manage these ponds. They ensure the ponds function effectively.
The Sungai Bunus flood retention pond was gazetted in 2018. It plays a critical role during heavy rain. It channels water into the pond. This mitigates flooding and protects surrounding areas.
Experts emphasize the need to protect these ponds. They suggest designating them as protected areas. This would prevent future development on these vital flood reservoirs. Maintaining these ponds is essential for the city’s safety. They are a key part of Kuala Lumpur’s interconnected flood mitigation system.
So, the next time you see the RRIM Detention Pond remember its important role. It protects Kuala Lumpur from the dangers of flooding. It stands as a testament to the city’s efforts to manage and mitigate environmental risks.