GEORGE TOWN: The partial collapse of Jalan Lembah Permai today was a result of unusual soil movement.
State Public Works Department (PWD) director Salleh Awang said soil activity in the area was first identified at about 12pm.
The large cracks appeared around 3pm resulting in a huge section of the road giving away. Some of the cracks, measuring about 200m, appeared on a stretch heading toward Jalan Fettes, near a water catchment area.
Salleh said the department will begin repair works early next week. The cost for repairs is estimated at RM356,000, which has already been approved by the Federal Government.
Salleh said the road would be closed for six weeks, effective today.
Meanwhile, the state’s Public Works, Utilities and Public Transportation committee chairman Lim Hock Seng, advised residents in the area to evacuate to avoid any untoward incident.
He urged the residents to seek refuge with relatives or friends until a suitable location can be identified as a temporary shelter.