The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is currently undertaking the construction of Lower Agusan Riverbank protection structure costing P289.5-million along Agao-Urduja-PPA Section with the purpose of mitigating severe flooding in the heart of Butuan City, Agusan del Sur.
Citing a report from Regional Director Pol M. Delos Santos of DPWH Region 13, Secretary Mark A. Villar said that the project involves construction of a 1.5-kilometer river wall with the provision of concrete service road.
It can be recalled that in previous years, Butuan City and its neighboring towns in Agusan del Sur suffered from severe flooding brought by continuous heavy rains and typhoons which affected properties and displaced thousands of families.
“Now 92% completed, this project will protect the West Bank of Agusan River from severe scouring and will reinforce the existing flood wall, flood gates, and relief pumping stations,” said Secretary Villar.
The project, divided into two (2) phases, is being fast-tracked for its target completion within the second quarter of 2019 to provide protection to residents and their properties in the upcoming rainy season.
“Infrastructure projects such as this is vital in ensuring the safety of locals living in coastal areas vulnerable to destruction of properties and loss of lives,” Secretary Villar added.