What risks does SEB warn if debris keeps accumulating?

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SEB Warns of Significant Risks to Baleh Dam Project and Downstream Communities if Debris Accumulation Persists

Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) has issued a warning regarding the potential risks posed by the continued accumulation of floating timber debris at the Baleh dam's diversion tunnel inlet portal. The company stated that if the current situation persists, it will significantly jeopardize the ongoing construction of the dam project. Furthermore, the accumulation poses a substantial threat to the safety of communities located downstream from the dam.
Risk to Project Construction

The accumulation of floating timber debris presents a direct risk to the construction activities of the Baleh dam. SEB is on high alert to manage the impact of this debris, which has been washed down from upstream by strong river currents. The debris is accumulating at the inlet portal of the diversion tunnels, potentially hindering crucial construction and operational access.
Threat to Downstream Community Safety

Beyond the project itself, SEB highlighted that the continued buildup of debris poses a significant risk to the safety of downstream communities. While the specific nature of this threat is not detailed, the potential obstruction of water flow or other unforeseen consequences associated with large debris accumulation could impact areas below the dam. SEB has formally notified relevant authorities and stakeholders about this developing situation.
Contributing Factors to Debris Accumulation

The current situation appears to be a confluence of factors, according to SEB. A period of dry weather from April to early August, coupled with ongoing logging activities upstream of the Baleh River, likely contributed to the availability of floating debris. The recent intense rainfall then acted as the catalyst, washing this material downstream and causing the accumulation observed at the dam site.
SEB's Monitoring and Clearing Protocols

SEB is actively monitoring the situation at the diversion tunnels inlet portal and has teams on standby to address the debris. Clearing operations will be conducted cautiously, commencing only when high water levels subside and it is deemed safe to proceed. This measured approach is intended to ensure the safety of personnel involved in the clearing works and to prevent further complications.

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What risks does SEB warn if debris keeps accumulating?

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