Section 1: The Purpose of the Dredging Project
Dredging operations at Pantal River in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, have been put on hold for nearly six weeks due to delays in the release of the project budget. This has caused concern among local residents, especially those in flood-prone areas, who have been eagerly awaiting the completion of the dredging work. The project, which aims to improve water flow and reduce flooding risks, is crucial for the city’s long-term flood prevention strategy. With the budget still pending, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is doing its best to mitigate the situation while awaiting the necessary funds.
The dredging operation at Pantal River is a critical infrastructure project aimed at preventing floods and improving the flow of water in the area. Over time, sediment and debris accumulate in rivers, slowing water flow and increasing the risk of flooding, particularly during the rainy season. By removing this buildup, dredging not only improves water circulation but also helps lower flood risks, especially in flood-prone areas of Dagupan City.
Another important aspect of the project is the backfilling of low-lying communities with dredged materials. These areas are particularly vulnerable to flooding, and by raising their ground levels, the project helps safeguard residents from potential floodwaters. This makes the dredging operation an essential part of the city’s flood control efforts, providing long-term protection for its residents.
Section 2: Impact of the Budget Delay
The six-week delay in dredging operations has created a sense of urgency among local residents. With the rainy season approaching, the need for the dredging project to be completed becomes even more critical. Although the funding for the project has been approved, the DPWH is still waiting for the official release of these funds.
According to Engr. Kim Angelo Soy, the DPWH Project Engineer overseeing the operation, “Pina-process na ‘yung mga kailangan, mayroon namang pondo” (The necessary processes are underway, and the funds are already available). However, the delay in the release of the funds has stalled the physical dredging work. This delay affects the entire project timeline and increases the risk of flooding in vulnerable areas of the city, which residents are anxiously trying to prepare for.
Section 3: Current Activities During the Hold
While the dredging itself is on hold, the DPWH has not been idle. The agency is focusing on clearing the spoil site where the dredged soil and sand are temporarily stored. This is a necessary step to ensure the site is ready for use once dredging operations resume.
Moreover, the materials collected from the riverbed are being transported to areas that urgently need backfilling. These materials are being used to raise the ground level in low-lying communities and local dumpsites, at the request of the local government. This helps reduce the risk of flooding for these areas, providing temporary relief for residents.
Josephine Cayabyab, a local resident living in a flood-prone area, shared her thoughts on the ongoing backfilling efforts. “Kapag umuulan, kawawa kami dito. Malaking tulong ‘yang panambak” (When it rains, we suffer here. This backfilling is a huge help), she said. These backfill activities, while not a complete solution, offer some respite for residents until the dredging can be completed.
Section 4: Community Response
The delay in the dredging operations has been a source of concern for many residents, especially those living in flood-prone areas. The backfilling efforts, though helpful, are only a temporary measure. Residents are hopeful that the full dredging operations will resume soon to provide a more long-term solution to flooding issues.
Residents like Josephine Cayabyab see the dredging project as an essential safeguard against the flooding that often disrupts their daily lives. “Malaking tulong ‘yang panambak,” she added, highlighting the importance of the backfill efforts in protecting communities like hers.
While waiting for the budget release, the local community has shown patience, understanding that the government is working to resolve the issue. However, the urgency of the situation is clear as the rainy season approaches, and the residents are relying on the prompt resumption of dredging operations to prevent further damage and hardship.
Section 5: What’s Next for the Dredging Operations
Once the budget is officially released, the DPWH is ready to resume dredging operations immediately. The department is committed to completing the project as quickly as possible to make up for the time lost during the delay. According to DPWH officials, the focus will be on dredging the riverbed to improve water flow, reduce sediment buildup, and provide additional flood protection for the city.
The resumption of dredging will also allow the backfilling of low-lying areas to continue, ultimately raising the ground levels and further reducing the risk of flooding. The completed project is expected to have a lasting positive impact on the local community, ensuring better flood management and reducing the vulnerability of Dagupan City to future flooding.
Conclusion
The dredging project at Pantal River is a vital initiative for improving flood management in Dagupan City, Pangasinan. The delay in funding has created significant challenges, but the DPWH is making every effort to minimize the impact on local residents. While backfilling efforts provide temporary relief, the full dredging operations are necessary to achieve long-term flood control. Once the budget is released, the DPWH plans to resume work and complete the project, ensuring a safer, more resilient community for the future.
As the rainy season draws closer, the importance of this project cannot be overstated. The community remains hopeful that the necessary funding will be released soon, allowing the dredging operation to continue and providing much-needed protection to Dagupan City’s residents.