In Iloilo, P96.4-M flood control project ready to protect communities
ILOILO CITY—Thousands of residents and farmers in communities near the Jaro-Aganan River in Iloilo province will face lesser risk of getting inundated during intense rains with the completion of the flood control project in Alimodian town.
The P96.4-million flood wall along the river’s banks in Barangay Bagumbayan of Alimodian consisted of 665-lineal meter revetment or retaining wall built on a steel sheet foundation, said Sanny Boy Oropel, director of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Western Visayas.
This structure is designed to reduce the risk of flooding by diverting, storing and releasing floodwaters in a controlled manner, especially during inclement weather, said Oropel.
Iloilo has faced severe flooding in the past. At the height of Typhoon “Frank” (international name: Fengshen) on June 21, 2009, heavy rainfall caused the upstream Aganan River to swell, with its runoff water merging with the downstream Jaro River, submerging communities in the towns of San Miguel, Sta. Barbara and Pavia and inundating with mud and debris most of Iloilo City.
Protect bridge
The flood control wall, completed on Nov. 5, will also safeguard the nearby Aganan Bridge from potential flood damage, ensuring it can remain open for the public, specially those transporting goods, Oropel said.
Oropel stressed the importance of the project to residents and farmers who reside and cultivate fields or raise livestock close to the Jaro-Aganan River.
The Jaro-Aganan River passes through numerous riverside villages the municipalities of Leon, Alimodian, San Miguel, and part of Sta. Barbara. The river joins the Jaro River in Barangay Ungka of Pavia town, which adjoins Iloilo City.
“Most communities along the Jaro-Aganan River depend on agricultural production and animal raising; hence, this flood mitigation structure will ensure the safety of their livelihood and enhance economic development in the locality,” he said.
