RM289m to repair flood-hit roads, bridges

GEMAS: The cabinet has approved RM289 million to restore roads and bridges damaged by floods in five states between last November and this year.

Works Minister Datuk Shaziman Abu Mansory said the initial amount allocated was RM189 million but the severe damage raised the cost of repairs.

He said the increased allocation followed a detailed report of the damage after the floods subsided in Terengganu, Pahang, Johor, Malacca and Negri Sembilan.

"The allocation has been channelled to the respective states. Restoration works are to start immediately," he said, after presenting aid to flood-hit victims in the Gemas main hall here yesterday.

He also denied allegations that the floods that hit the five states were due to the government's poor efforts, adding that other countries were also affected by natural disasters.

"No government would want their country to be struck with such a calamity. The floods did not only occur in Malaysia but also in Pakistan and developed countries such as Australia and New Zealand.

Our country is prepared for floods and the situation is under control. We are also able to identify the damage swiftly and channel aid to the affected states," he added.

Read more: RM289m to repair flood-hit roads, bridges http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/27hey/Article#ixzz1Flc0t9oW