DPWH completes slope protection structures along Aklan roads

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Aklan District Engineering Office completed the construction of four slope protection structures in various towns in the province of Aklan.

According to District Engineer Alejandro M. Ventilacion, the PHP11.26-million slope protection structure in Nabas town, along Aklan West Road, involves the construction of a 281.8-lineal meter reinforced concrete cantilever retaining wall.

The PHP19.59-million slope protection structure in Malay town, also along Aklan West Road, includes the 85.4-lineal meter reinforced concrete on steel sheet pile footing.

“These projects, funded under the Department’s calamity fund, were materialized when Typhoon Falcon hit the province sometime in July 2019. The calamity caused landslides and road slips along various sections of Aklan West Road, particularly in Brgy. Kabulihan, Malay,” Ventilacion said.

These slope protection structures (retaining walls) are placed intermittently in areas where frequent erosion of soil occurs, especially during rainy days. The projects also include re-blocking and upgrading of the 2-lane road and construction of concrete lined ditch.

On the other hand, two slope protection are structures are completed by the District in Tangalan town, the 528.5-meter concrete slope protection along Tangalan-Ibajay Road and 540.5-meter slope protection from Poblacion to Jawili Falls, and Ibajay Mangrove and eco-park.

“These projects will ensure safety of motorists and local residents in these disaster-prone areas in the province. More slope protection and flood control structures will also be undertaken by the District this year to provide a more convenient and safer travel among our motorists, and protect the lives and properties of the people in these areas,” Ventilacion stressed. (DPWH-6/RPAIO)