Hill cutting around districts in Sabah are taking place more frequently now. And this is a cause for concern. Not only is it unsightly but it also allow erosion to occur. If no measures are taken to rectify these damages, then flooding, landslide etc. will happen and endanger the lives of residents within this area. There is no denying that hill cutting is unavoidable because of reclaimation works nessitated by developments.
A case in point is Nambazan in Penampang where hill cutting have been proceeding for quite a long time. It is understood that the operator has the relevant permit to carry out the operation. Even so, it would still be appropriate in future for the authority to require that an evaluation be made first regarding its long term environmental impact before approval is given.
To minimise the aftereffect of hill cutting, conditions must be attached to the licence. That is, the operator is required to plant trees on the cutting site. And it must be strictly enforced. Otherwise it would just be an ugly place. At least with trees planted, it would ensure the coolness of its surroundings. Trees are good filter of hot air ( breeze and wind) because when it passes through the canopy of leaves, the hotness is removed. And the air is cooled.
The authority should also ensure that hill cutting should not be done on hilly terrains in which water catchment are located. As this may affect the availabity of water in future. Water is a fast depleting resources in most countries of the world. The more reason for the government to act cautiously and to make the conservation of water catchment areas its most important priority.
Finally naked hills are an eyesore and of course the most sensible action is to discourage hill cutting if possible. Nothing beats, well preserved hills with lots of greeneries. They add character and coolnes to the towns and districts.
A case in point is Nambazan in Penampang where hill cutting have been proceeding for quite a long time. It is understood that the operator has the relevant permit to carry out the operation. Even so, it would still be appropriate in future for the authority to require that an evaluation be made first regarding its long term environmental impact before approval is given.
To minimise the aftereffect of hill cutting, conditions must be attached to the licence. That is, the operator is required to plant trees on the cutting site. And it must be strictly enforced. Otherwise it would just be an ugly place. At least with trees planted, it would ensure the coolness of its surroundings. Trees are good filter of hot air ( breeze and wind) because when it passes through the canopy of leaves, the hotness is removed. And the air is cooled.
The authority should also ensure that hill cutting should not be done on hilly terrains in which water catchment are located. As this may affect the availabity of water in future. Water is a fast depleting resources in most countries of the world. The more reason for the government to act cautiously and to make the conservation of water catchment areas its most important priority.
Finally naked hills are an eyesore and of course the most sensible action is to discourage hill cutting if possible. Nothing beats, well preserved hills with lots of greeneries. They add character and coolnes to the towns and districts.
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