NABAWAN: Pekan Pensiangan residents are on edge after the Saliu riverbank began eroding dangerously close to their homes following floods on Friday night.
The erosion threatens four houses and a jetty hut with the jetty staircase already partially destroyed. Pensiangan Native Chief Representative John Endim said the Pensiangan Health Clinic staff quarters is also under threat as they are located only about 30 meters from the riverbank.
“If no immediate action is taken, nearby buildings could collapse into the river,” John said.
He pointed out that gabions (wire mesh structures filled with rocks) were installed along the riverbank years ago, but frequent flooding has rendered them ineffective.
To address the issue, John proposed reinforcing the riverbank with additional retaining structures to prevent further erosion and protect the threatened properties.
He also said that he and other local leaders are preparing a detailed report for the authorities to expedite necessary action and ensure the safety of the affected residents.