By Betheena Unite
A 1.5-kilometer riverbank protection structure in Butuan City, Agusan del Sur is expected to be completed soon in an attempt to prevent severe flooding incidents in the area.
Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar (FACEBOOK / MANILA BULLETIN)
The Department of Public Works and Highways said the Lower Agusan Riverbank protection structure is being constructed along Agao-Urduja-PPA Section in Butuan City under a P289.5-million fund.
“Now 92 percent completed, this project will protect the West Bank of Agusan River from severe scouring and will reinforce the existing flood wall, flood gates, and relief pumping stations,” Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar said.
According to Regional Director Pol delos Santos, the 1.5-kilometer river wall project also includes the construction of a concrete service road.
Severe flooding in Butuan City and neighboring towns in Agusan del Sur during heavy rains and typhoons in the previous years prompted the department to come up with a river wall project, Villar said.
The project being implemented in two phases and is expected to be completed by the second quarter of the year.
“Infrastructure projects such as this is vital in ensuring the safety of locals living in coastal areas vulnerable to destruction of properties and loss of lives,” Villar added.