By CESAR JOLITO III

Bacolod City has strengthened its flood-control efforts with the acquisition of three heavy equipment units worth P45.4 million, aimed at accelerating the ongoing dredging of major rivers and creeks across the city.

The newly procured equipment — comprising a mini amphibious excavator, a six-wheeler dump truck and a long-arm crawler excavator — was officially blessed recently and is expected to enhance the city’s capacity to remove silt, debris and accumulated waste from waterways that have become shallow over time.

Mayor Greg Gasataya said the additional equipment will help prevent delays in dredging operations, particularly in priority waterways that frequently overflow during heavy rains.

The city government is prioritizing dredging activities in the Mandalagan and Banago rivers, which have long been identified as major flood-prone areas.

The Mandalagan River, in particular, is targeted for the removal of at least 9,000 cubic meters of silt and waste, as its rapid overflow during downpours has been linked to recurring flash floods affecting nearby communities, including Purok Carvic.

Gasataya clarified that dredging works at the Mambuloc Creek fall under the mandate of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), with the city government providing support through additional manpower and equipment as force multipliers.

Once dredging operations in the Mandalagan and Banago rivers are completed, the city plans to immediately commence similar works in the Lupit and Magsungay rivers as part of a broader strategy to reduce flooding and improve drainage across Bacolod./CJ, WDJ