By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Oct 31: An initial investigation into the sinkhole on Jalan Tun Jugah, measuring approximately 1.3 meters by 1.7 meters and 0.75 meters deep, suggests it may have been caused by a leak from a rainwater downpipe connected to the nearby shopping complex car park.
A briefing held by the relevant authorities today presented the preliminary assessment, indicating that the sinkhole is relatively shallow.
During a visual inspection, the Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak noted that the surrounding road base material appeared loose and moist.
Investigators also identified an underground drainage system beneath the footpath adjacent to the sinkhole, with a manhole cover located about two metres from the site.
In response to this incident, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas has mandated the formation of an investigation committee comprising senior officials from JKR Sarawak.
According to a statement, this committee will conduct a thorough examination and assess the potential for additional sinkhole occurrences in the vicinity.
Through JKR Sarawak’s Research Centre, the committee will utilise Ground Penetration Radar (GPR) technology for a detailed investigation to ensure no further sinkholes are present beneath the roadway.
This comprehensive analysis is expected to be completed by Nov 15, 2024.
The sinkhole was reported yesterday (Oct 30) near the entrance of CityOne Megamall, prompting immediate action from local authorities.
Uggah, who is also the Minister of Infrastructure and Ports Development, directed JKR Sarawak to investigate the incident and backfill the sinkhole with appropriate materials to restore the surface and mitigate risks to road users.
The surface repair was completed within a few hours following the report. — DayakDaily
