Flood-prone communities in Bacolod City and Binalbagan town in Negros Occidental stand to benefit from three flood mitigation structures worth PHP269.1 million funded by the national government.

Completed as of Wednesday are the PHP91-million flood control structure in Barangay Granada here, as well as the PHP79.1-million slope protection project along Binalbagan River and the PHP99-million river control structure along Binalbagan-Isabela Road, according to reports of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Western Visayas (Region 6).

In Bacolod, the structure aims to protect communities in Purok 6, Purok 7, and Purok 4 in Hacienda Carmen from the frequent threat of flooding along Loygoy River during heavy rains and typhoons.

“It will serve as a resilient barrier designed to prevent overflow, which has been a persistent concern for residents in the area,” DPWH-6 Regional Director Sanny Boy Oropel said in a statement.

This flood mitigation project, implemented by the Bacolod City District Engineering Office, will contribute to the city’s efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience, he added.

Down south in Binalbagan, the two slope protection projects, undertaken by the Negros Occidental Second District Engineering Office, are vital to enhancing the safety and security of residents in Barangay San Jose.

The structure along the river adjacent to Binalbagan Bridge has a 195.2-lineal meter concrete slope protection that provides a robust defense against the erosive forces of the river.

Also, the project along Binalbagan-Isabela Road features reinforced concrete slope protection with steel sheet piles for stability and durability to significantly reduce the risks associated with heavy rainfall and potential flooding.

“By reinforcing the riverbanks and road slopes, we are proactively addressing the challenges posed by natural elements and ensuring a safer environment for all,” Oropel said. (PNA)