The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed five (5) flood control projects along Aklan River which now serve as defenses against flooding and erosion of river banks in the flood-prone towns of Lezo, Kalibo, and Madalag.
DPWH Region 6 Director Nerie D. Bueno explained that new structures will benefit Aklanons, particularly low-lying communities residing along or near the rivers, especially amidst the rainy season.
A 564-lineal meter reinforced concrete revetment supported by steel sheet piling was completed in Barangay Sta. Cruz Biga-a, Lezo for P96.5 million.
In Kalibo, two (2) flood control projects were completed in Barangays Tigayon and Mobo. Amounting to a total of P151.7 million, the 572-lineal meter and 516-lineal meter structures will protect roughly 6,000 residents during heavy rains.
Likewise, the DPWH Aklan District Engineering Office in the municipality of Madalag undertook the construction of a 594-lineal meter revetment wall in Barangay Guinatuan and a 288-lineal meter revetment wall in Barangay Poblacion with a total cost of P116.4 million.
With the completion of flood mitigation projects, national roads are also protected from possible damage caused by excessive flooding which allows unhampered delivery of basic government services from towns to far-flung areas and transport of goods from farms to markets.