Effects of river reclamation feared
Fishpond operators and nearby residents have raised concern on the possible effects of the reclamation made by the China-International Water and Electrical Corporation at the vicinity of the Carpenters Bridge in Brgy. Tabucan, Mandurriao. The reclamation affects the river channel connecting Lapaz-Molo-Arevalo districts.
Fishpen owner Flavio Elastron said the reclamation will constrict the river flow which could affect the volume of water that runs through the Iloilo River.
Speaking over Bombo Radyo, Elastron said the reclamation could dry up their fishpens affecting their only source of livelihood.
Elastron said their group had already brought the matter to the attention of City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas.
The reclamation is part of the Phase II of the Iloilo Flood Control Project worth P230 million being contracted by China-International Water and Electrical Corporation. The project package includes the construction of a new bridge replacing the present Carpenters Bridge which is already dilapidated.
The construction of the new bridge is under Phase II, Contract Package No. 2 of the Stage 1 of the Iloilo Flood Control Project. The construction started last March 1, 2006. The target date for the completion of project is February 12, 2009.
The project contractor has already reclaimed almost ¾ of the river channel. Bed of rocks and soil were piled up to make a mini-road to accommodate the heavy equipment they are set to use for the construction of a new bridge.
Meanwhile, residents in Barangay North San Jose, Molo also fear that the ongoing reclamation will cause flooding in the area comes the rainy season.
Residents, who asked not to be named, said the city government should take a look at the ongoing project. They said they are not against the construction of a new bridge but the safety of the residents should be given primary consideration. Some of the residents affected by the project were already transferred to the city's relocation site in Sooc, Mandurriao.
Engr. Dan Teroy of the Department of Public Works and Highways said the reclamation was purposely made as "crane way" of the contractor. The crane will pass by the reclaimed part of the river for their pile driving, he said.
Teroy said the river flow will not be affected as there is no major river tributaries along the affected area. The flow of the water depends on the high tide and low tide. The blockage will not cause the water to overflow, he explained.
Teroy assured the contractor will demolish or remove all the materials they have put into the river after the project's completion.