CATARMAN, N. Samar-The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Northern Samar First District Engineering Office (NSFDEO) continues its dredging operations in the heavily silted river channels of Catarman, Northern Samar, as part of its long-term flood mitigation efforts.
District Engineer Alvin A. Ignacio reported that the dredging activity, which began on April 25, 2024, aims to remove a total of 127,883.38 cubic meters of silt from the river. As of now, 28.48% of the target has been achieved, with approximately 36,424.0 cubic meters of dredged material successfully cleared from the waterways.
DPWH Regional Equipment Management Division (EMD) is overseeing the dredging works ensuring that the works is carried out efficiently. District Engineer Ignacio further stated that operations may experience intermittent stoppages due to equipment repairs or preventive maintenance. Despite this, the district remains committed to completing the dredging within the designated timeframe.
“These dredging operations are essential in addressing the significant flood risks faced by Catarman, especially following the extreme rainfall event on November 21, 2023. On that day, Catarman received over a month’s worth of rain in just 24 hours, leading to widespread flooding, displacing many residents, damaging properties, and tragically claiming lives,” said DE Ignacio.
Once completed, the dredging operation will significantly enhance the municipality’s resilience against future flooding events, helping to safeguard lives and properties. (ANALIZA A. PABIA/PR)
