A comprehensive clearing and desilting operation is set to commence in the Mandalagan River on Monday, October 20.
This initiative follows the arrival of an amphibious dredger dispatched by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) – Negros Island Region, a press release from the Bacolod City Communications Office said Saturday, Oct. 18.
Mayor Greg Gasataya has tasked the City Engineer’s Office (CEO), in collaboration with the DPWH-NIR, to optimize the river’s water flow and mitigate flood risks in adjacent communities.
The operation will involve the deployment of heavy machinery, including backhoes and dump trucks, to eliminate accumulated silt, garbage, and debris obstructing the river’s channels.
A recent hydrographic survey by the CEO indicated that the river mouth’s depth has diminished to approximately one meter due to significant sedimentation, the press release said.
Gasataya described the condition as a “ramp” forming at the river’s outlet, which exacerbates backflow and flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.
City Engineer’s Office OIC Loben Cebellos said that the desilting efforts would span at least 500 meters of the river, from the mouth up to the Barangay 1 bridge, with an estimated 54,000 cubic meters of silt to be removed. The project is projected to last five to six months.
In addition, truck-mounted flood mitigation equipment has been positioned in the BREDCO area to manage floodwaters in the reclamation area.
Gasataya said the equipment was requested from the DPWH to alleviate flooding in the area while awaiting the completion of the diversion channel project.
The CEO has also conducted drainage system clearing operations along Bugnay and Kamunsil Streets in Barangay Villamonte, prompted by localized flooding from recent heavy rains, the press release said.*