Halting Unauthorized Sand Sales
Private dredging activities along the Pangasinan River have been temporarily halted by authorities. The operations, which took place across the barangays of Nibaliw, Guesang, and Landas in Mangaldan, Pangasinan, were paused after it was discovered that the extracted sand was being sold commercially. This step ensures that all natural resource extraction complies with local regulations.
Reviewing Dredging Permits and Compliance
Although the groups involved in the dredging had the necessary permits, the local government has decided to reassess the operational guidelines to ensure they are followed properly. This review aims to align the dredging activities with the intended purpose of maintaining the river’s health and preventing unauthorized commercial exploitation.
Preventing Improper Quarrying
Rodolfo Corla, the officer for Mangaldan Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM), explained the decision: “We had to prohibit it temporarily because what was supposed to be dredging turned into quarrying. They were selling the sand instead of stacking it along the riverbanks.” This measure is to ensure that dredging does not morph into an unauthorized commercial quarry operation.
Enhancing Flood Prevention Measures
The municipal authorities are planning to enhance efforts to clear the riverbanks to help prevent flooding during the rainy season. A study by the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (DENR) identified 21 barangays in the town as prone to flooding, highlighting the critical need for effective flood mitigation strategies.
Ongoing Infrastructure Projects for Flood Mitigation
Currently, the local government is also keeping an eye on ongoing projects in the barangays, which include drainage construction and road elevation, as part of its comprehensive flood mitigation strategy. These projects are essential in reducing the risk of flooding, protecting both the environment and local communities.