LETTER | Recurrent floods wreaking havoc on Bandar Hilir

LETTER | For nearly half a century, Bandar Hilir, Malacca, has stood as a sanctuary for its residents. However, the past 10 years have witnessed the rise of an unexpected adversary - floods that descend like clockwork with as little as 30 minutes of rainfall.

Families, once united by their neighbourhood's charm, now share tales of devastation that echo a common sentiment - the situation has reached an untenable breaking point.

The aftermath of each flood paints a bleak picture. As murky water infiltrates homes, footwear becomes soaked, essential appliances teeter on the edge of ruin, and the once-familiar comfort of daily life is disrupted.

In this cruel symphony of destruction, electronics, cherished belongings, and even cherished memories are submerged.

In the days following a flood, a gruelling clean-up ensues. Muddy residue must be painstakingly eradicated from furniture, walls, and every crevice of homes.

The musty scent of dampness lingers, accompanied by the ever-present threat of mould. Amidst the physical clean-up, emotional scars remain, an enduring reminder of the turmoil that unfolds time and again.

With compromised sanitation comes the haunting spectre of disease. What was once a mundane fever now evokes fear of Covid-19, a new layer of complexity in an already strained healthcare system.

Beyond the physical toll, the psychological aftermath is profound. The recurring trauma of flooding leaves an indelible mark, manifesting as anxiety and apprehension with each looming raincloud, shattering the sanctuary of one's own home.

Despite reaching out through various channels, Bandar Hilir's residents find their pleas for assistance met with inadequate solutions.

The recurrent advice to simply clean the nearest drain feels like a superficial bandage on a deep wound. The time has come for a holistic approach, led by experts in drainage systems and flood management, to finally address the root cause and offer lasting solutions.

Amidst the challenges, the residents stand strong. Their determination is evident as they seek ways to break free from this cycle of misery.

Bandar Hilir's ongoing flood crisis is a poignant reminder of human vulnerability in the face of nature's might.

The era of temporary fixes and half-hearted solutions must come to an end. It's imperative for authorities, experts, and policymakers to unite, crafting a comprehensive strategy to shield the community from this recurring nightmare.

Only through collaborative and informed action can Bandar Hilir regain its tranquillity, and its resilient inhabitants find a semblance of normalcy amidst the chaos.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.