Lakeside MLA Urges Preparation of Portage Diversion to Reduce Water Levels
STONEWALL — Manitoba Progressive Conservatives are urging Premier Wab Kinew and his Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure to prepare the Portage Diversion for operation to reduce water levels in southern Manitoba and the Interlake.
Lakeside MLA Trevor King, PC Critic for Municipal and Northern Relations, wrote a letter to the premier and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor this morning, calling on them to consider the immediate operation of the diversion to protect downstream communities from overland flooding caused by recent severe rainfall, and the threat of more rain in the forecast.
“Communities downstream are facing significant flood-related risks, including flooded fields, saturated drainage systems, and road impacts, as well as threats to homes, yards, agricultural land, and municipal infrastructure,” said King. “The Portage Diversion exists to reduce flood risk, and residents need to know that every available provincial flood-control measure is being used where appropriate.”
States of emergencies were declared in the Town of Stonewall, RM of Rosser, and several other Lakeside communities after up to 255 mm of rain pounded southern Manitoba last week, flooding homes, businesses, farmland, and municipalities, and destroying many bridges and roads. The threat of flooding continues across the region with saturated soil and overflowing rivers.
“As of yesterday morning, the Portage Diversion was not in operation. This has caused concern among residents and local officials who are already dealing with serious overland flooding conditions,” said King. “There is also concern in the community that the mechanical systems that operate the diversion gates may not be functioning correctly.”
King asked for clarification on the operational status of the diversion, and whether there are any mechanical issues hindering the diversion’s operation.
“The Portage Diversion exists to reduce flood risk,” he said. “Residents need to know that every available provincial flood-control measure is being used where appropriate.”
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