DPWH builds concrete river wall in Leganes, Iloilo to protect livelihood and properties from flood

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The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Iloilo 4th District Engineering Office is currently undertaking the construction of a flood control structure along Buntatala Creek, specifically in Barangay Buntatala in Leganes, Iloilo.

The ongoing Php 96.039-million project involves the construction of an 851-meter long, 3-meter high revetment wall, an essential infrastructure that helps protect people, property, and resources from the damaging effects of floods.

Citing a report from District Engineer Mario G. Soriano, DPWH-6 OIC-Regional Director Sanny Boy O. Oropel said the flood protection structure will serve as a defense against flash floods and erosion of the riverbank, protecting people, their properties, and means of livelihood.

“When completed, this flood control structure is built to help reduce the risk of flooding by diverting, storing, and releasing floodwaters in a controlled manner to reduce the risk of flooding. This will eventually protect communities from the damage that can be caused by flooding, such as property damage, loss of life, and contamination of drinking water sources, OIC-RD Sanny Boy O. Oropel said.

“The livelihood of people in the area depends on agricultural production and animal raising, hence, the revetment wall will protect their source of living, making them earn for their needs,” RD Oropel added.

“This will serve also as protection of the road and bridge from being damaged that may be caused rising of river water, making the road open to motorists and the riding public all the time. With this structure, the road will be protected from possible cut-off especially when heavy rains occur, hence, the flow of the delivery of basic goods and services will not be hampered.” Oropel further said.

In addition, District Engineer Mario G. Soriano said without this flood control structure, there would be an increased risk of flooding, which could lead to widespread damage to lives, property, livelihood, and sources of basic needs.

“This river control is essential in protecting communities from the effects of flooding to protect communities from danger and safeguarding agriculture and livelihood in the area from possible devastation,” DE Mario G. Soriano said

“This structure will likewise reduce the amount of sedimentation and pollution in the river by reducing the amount of water rushing downstream. The flood control structure can help reduce the amount of sediment and other pollutants that can be carried downstream,” DE Soriano added.

DPWH will continuously undertake significant structures to ensure that more communities along this river will be safer and protected. (DPWH-6)