JASIN: Long plagued by repeated floods, villagers in Kampung Lubok Kasau here can expect much-needed relief with the launch of a major flood mitigation project next month, Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh says.

The Melaka Chief Minister said more than 300 villagers stand to benefit from the RM1.5mil initiative, which will be funded through an emergency allocation by the Irrigation and Drainage Department.

“This is an extraordinary step to protect the safety and well-being of our people. Kampung Lubok Kasau has been hit by floods three times between this March and April alone,” he said after visiting the project site on Friday (July 4).

Ab Rauf said the works will include deepening Sungai Bemban by stabilising riverbanks and raising a 2.2km embankment to reduce the risk of future flooding.

“Work at the site is slated to begin on August 1 with completion targeted for November,” he said.

He said that the state government is also preparing a long-term strategy to address flood risks in the area.

“A proposal has been submitted under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13) for a detailed study of drainage and flood risk management, covering Kampung Lubok Kasau, Kampung Asam Kumbang and other flood-prone areas within the Bemban constituency.

“The findings will provide the foundation for a comprehensive, sustainable solution to safeguard nearby communities,” he added.