Narrow Spaces Between Homes Complicate Rescue Of Temerloh Flood Victims

KUANTAN, Oct 18 (Bernama) -- The close proximity of houses is one of the challenges faced by the Pahang Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) during flood rescue operations in Temerloh.

Pahang JBPM assistant director of operations Ismail Abdul Ghani said his team also had to deal with uneven roads and various obstacles in the water.

“The challenge we face during rescue operations in rural areas or villages is that the houses are often built too close together, making it difficult for boats to pass through.

“Another risk is that we can’t always see submerged objects like house fences or fallen trees while navigating boats. In housing or village areas, roads are often submerged and uneven, which is another difficulty firefighters have to deal with,” he told Bernama today.

Ismail, who was met after the Pahang JBPM conducted a marine asset and equipment test at Sungai Kuantan, said that to overcome these challenges, they had deployed personnel who were familiar with the flood-hit areas.

“(Flood rescue) experience is essential and risk assessments also play a role in ensuring rescue operations are conducted safely, efficiently and smoothly,” he added.

As of 12.20 pm, a total of 1,616 flood victims from 483 families are still sheltering at eight temporary relief centres in Temerloh.

Commenting further, Ismail said the department has trained boat operators who undergo regular training to ensure preparedness for any situation, especially during the upcoming northeast monsoon (MTL).

The training focuses on rescuing victims in fast-flowing currents and waves, as well as boat navigation techniques, he added.

He also said that 99 per cent of Pahang JBPM’s assets are in good condition and ready for operations during the MTL, with more than 1,000 personnel set to be deployed.

-- BERNAMA