Mayor Khymer Olaso announced on Monday that an automated alarm system will be set up along the riverbanks here to enhance safety during flash flood warnings.

Olaso said the automated alarm system will be installed along riverbanks in the villages of Pasonanca, Curuan, Manicahan and Pamucutan, where picnic activities are frequently held.

For the Tumaga River in Barangay Pasonanca, Olaso said the alarm system will be installed and operated in partnership with the Zamboanga City Water District (ZCWD).

“Once they (ZCWD personnel) notice there’s a flash flood in their diversion weir, they can immediately sound the alarm,” Olaso said in a press conference.

On July 18, a female student drowned after being swept away in the Tumaga River in Barangay Pasonanca while she tried to swim toward the riverbank.

Her classmates managed to climb onto a tree in the middle of the river and were later saved by a joint rescue team.

Heavy rains in the mountains triggered flash floods in the city’s tributaries over the weekend, including the Tumaga River.

A section of the Tumaga River is a popular swimming spot for locals due to its crystal-clear water.

“The materials needed for the installation of the alarm system will be funded by the city government,” he said. (PNA)