KUCHING, Sept 30: An 80-meter-long bailey bridge will be constructed as an interim solution to replace the defective and unsafe Sungai Musah bridge at Sungai Tekalit.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas revealed that the State government has allocated RM4.8 million for the bridge, access roads, and transportation needs for the residents on both sides of the river.
“Our Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, had set aside a fund of RM50 million to address emergency repairs for our roads, bridges, and other infrastructure. This fund is managed by the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC), which has agreed to allocate the funds for this bailey bridge and other necessities,” he informed reporters during his site visit today.
Uggah, who also serves as the Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development (MIPD), stated that he has directed the bridge’s construction within a month after a technical study is conducted prior to commencement.
He further mentioned the existence of a plantation road in the area as a potential alternative route.
Regarding the damaged bridge, a consultant has been appointed to conduct a detailed study to determine the exact cause and provide recommendations. Uggah assured that decisions on the next course of action would be made based on these findings.
He emphasised that the Public Works Department (JKR) continually monitors the condition of all bridges across the State, with monthly assessments.
Nevertheless, he acknowledged the unfortunate incident and stressed the importance of the consultant’s thorough investigation.
During the briefing, Kapit divisional JKR engineer Jawa Bara explained that the Sungai Musah bridge was completed in 2014 at a cost of RM55 million.
He attributed the bridge’s issues to soil movement in the river, which caused a section to collapse, leading to the bridge’s closure on Sept 21 at around 9.30 pm. — DayakDaily
