Samy: Rain and clogged drains caused landslide
07/05/2007 NST

SHAH ALAM: Continuous heavy rains and clogged drains contributed to the landslide at Jalan Sultan Salahuddin on Friday.

Works Minister Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu said the drains around the housing quarters were not maintained properly resulting in the water seeping into the ground.

“There was also a broken pipe but it has not been ascertained whether it occurred before or after the landslip,” he told reporters after the joint opening of the MIC Wanita, Youth and Puteri annual general meeting here yesterday.

Samy Vellu said the drainage system had to be maintained and repaired to ensure the smooth flow of the water to other areas instead of into the ground.

“There is also a need for continued monitoring with the help of the City Hall and the police. If there are signs of earth movement, the Public Works Department has to be alerted immediately,” he said.

He said City Hall had also been directed to place warning signs and barriers to prevent people from entering the landslip area.

On long-term measures, Samy Vellu said there was a need to strengthen the slope after a detailed investigation into the incident, including a geotechnic study..

The landslip brought down mud and trees, partially closing the road leading to Bank Negara for several hours.