by BERNAMA / pic by BERNAMA

THE Terengganu Social Welfare Department (JKM) has identified 568 evacuation centres (PPS) to accommodate 135,045 flood victims throughout the state.

Its director, Zuhami Omar said from the total, 151 PPS are found in Besut with a capacity of 14,390 people followed by 99 PPS in Hulu Terengganu (12,060 people) followed by Kemaman (73 PPS ) with a capacity for 41,800 people.

There are 73 PPS in Dungun which can house 16,205 victims, Setiu as 73 PPS for 18,050 people, Marang (51 PPS for 13,050 victims), Kuala Nerus (24 PPS for 10,070) and Kuala Terengganu (24 PPS for 9,420 victims).

“We are also identifying several suitable locations as relief centres in view of the COVID-19 pandemic for physical distancing in each PPS…the total will be finalised in a meeting on Wednesday,” he told reporters today.

According to the Meteorological Department, the northeast monsoon in Terengganu is expected to start in early November with risks of floods in several areas especially in low-lying places and areas near the river.

Apart from that, Zuhami said the department is also distributing essential items and food for flood victims at all 17 mini depot and 152 forward bases throughout the state.

“All the goods are expected to be completely sent out by next week. Supplies for Pulau Redang, Pulau Perhentian and Kampung Pasir Raja in Dungun would be despatched before Wednesday (Oct 21).

“The items would be sufficient for two weeks but if an expected situation arises, (worsening flood and additional victims) we will source supplies from several supermarkets such as Mydin, Giant and Sabasun.

“There are at least five supermarkets in each district which could send supplies in pressing situations,” he said.