Clearing works resume on Jalan Tun Sardon, road remains closed

GEORGE TOWN: Clearing works remain the main focus along Jalan Tun Sardon here, which is still closed following a landslide last Thursday.

State Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the road has been closed to all vehicles to ensure the safety of road users while the Public Works Department continues cleaning and assessment efforts.

“Several rocks have also fallen due to loose soil conditions. Fortunately, the road was closed earlier, and cleaning works are still ongoing at the moment,” he told newsmen here today.

It was previously reported that Jalan Tun Sardon, which connects Paya Terubong to Balik Pulau, was closed from 6pm last Thursday, following a slope collapse, believed to have been triggered by continuous heavy rain that started early that morning.

According to Zairil, based on PWD’s initial plan, the closure is expected to continue until Oct 31, though the road may reopen earlier depending on the latest assessment.

“The earliest possible reopening could be tomorrow, but that depends entirely on current conditions. PWD will evaluate the situation and inform the state government,” he added.

Zairil added that the landslide incident at Jalan Tun Sardon was caused by two to three days of continuous rainfall, which destabilised several slopes.

“This is an unusual situation caused by weather factors. We must ensure safety before reopening the route,” he said.

He advised motorists to remain patient amid traffic congestion around Teluk Kumbar and Bayan Lepas during the road closure period.

“The police are assisting in managing and redirecting traffic flow to reduce congestion. However, we urge road users to be patient while these works are being completed,” he said.

Meanwhile, he said that the Federal Route FT006, which circles the island from Teluk Bahang to Balik Pulau near Titi Kerawang and which was also affected by slope failure, has now been partially reopened to light vehicles only, while heavy vehicles such as lorries and buses remain prohibited from using the stretch.

“The federal government has also approved emergency allocation works to repair the affected slopes, and contractors will begin the repair works soon,” he added.

© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd

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