KADA SECURES RM20 MLN TO REPAIR FLOOD-DAMAGED AGRICULTURE INFRASTRUCTURE

KOTA BHARU, Jan 5 (Bernama) -- The Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority (KADA) has confirmed receiving an allocation of RM20 million to repair agricultural infrastructure damaged by recent floods in Kelantan.

KADA chairman Khalid Abdul Samad said identified damages include the water control gates in Pasir Mas and Pasir Puteh.

He said the floods not only destroyed a significant portion of padi fields but also severely affected irrigation systems and other infrastructure.

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“We must find immediate solutions, even temporary measures, to ensure water supply can reach the fields in time for the next planting season, scheduled before April.

“KADA will hold discussions tomorrow with the State Agriculture, Agrofood and Commodities Committee chairman, as well as the State Infrastructure, Public Works, Water and Rural Development Committee chairman to address this matter,” he told reporters at the ‘Meet the Media’ event hosted by KADA tonight.

Khalid said the meeting would also discuss rebuilding the damaged riverbank piles.

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He said while the state government had previously approved the repairs, additional studies on the impact of riverbank erosion are required.

“If the state government grants swift approval, we can commence repairs immediately, targeting completion before April to ensure the next padi planting cycle proceeds as planned. Funds are already available.

“KADA has also received RM17 million to purchase 150 water pumps to supply water to padi fields, anticipating this year’s dry season,” he added.

Farmers affected by the floods will be supported through disaster relief funds and takaful insurance schemes registered under Agrobank, he said.

-- BERNAMA