Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson stressed the need for serious maintenance work on waterways to mitigate flooding.

Lacson, who was reacting to the recent floods that hit northern Negros Occidental, said today, January 10, that with progress and modernization, a lot of areas are now made with concrete and impermeable materials.

With this, there is limited ground for water to sink in when there is a heavy downpour, he said.

“In all our efforts towards progress, we must demonstrate that economic growth and protection of the environment can go together and not be in conflict with each other,” he said.

He said the prevalent improper waste disposal undeniably aggravated the flood situation.

“Garbage obstructs the free flow of water into our waterways. This is another wake-up call for everyone to adhere to proper waste disposal, otherwise, this flooding will happen repeatedly,” he said.

Lacson also called on those who are advised by the authorities to evacuate, to follow instructions immediately for their own safety.

“Mortalities and injuries of these floods could have been prevented if the advise to evacuate was followed promptly. Please remember that your safety and well being are the primary reasons for the evacuation call,” he said.

The Department of Public Works and Highways began dredging clogged waterways in flood-hit Victorias City late last week, and on Saturday the provincial government dredger arrived in Talisay City.

DIGICAST, January 10, 2021 by Carla P. Gomez