By CESAR JOLITO III

The Negros Occidental provincial government has allocated P1 million for fuel supply to support the operation of heavy equipment conducting massive clearing works in Tamburong Creek in La Castellana’s Barangay Biak na Bato.

Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz II said a 4,000-liter fuel tank will be stationed on-site to ensure the continuous operation of backhoes and dump trucks hauling volcanic debris spewed from Kanlaon Volcano.

The clearing operations, which started early yesterday morning, aim to widen the creek to six meters and deepen it to 30 feet to prevent flooding in nearby communities.

Diaz emphasized that the project is crucial in mitigating risks, especially with the rainy season bringing the threat of flash floods.

He added that works will continue until the waterway can safely accommodate heavy rainfall and reduce the chances of overflow into residential areas.

The operation comes after recent flooding forced evacuations in La Castellana, highlighting the urgency of dredging creeks clogged by lahar, sand and boulders from the Kanlaon eruption.

Authorities said the lahar-blocked waterway must be dredged as soon as possible to prevent further flooding, after nearly 100 individuals were evacuated over the weekend as water overflowed into nearby homes./CJ, WDJ