KUALA SELANGOR: The section of Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway where a sinkhole appeared last night, will be reopened to vehicles at 7pm today, says Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
Alexander said based on reports by Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL), the sinkhole was due to the collapse of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) Tunnel 2.
"The 9.5 metre-wide sinkhole appeared 13 metres above the tunnel.
"Contractors have taken action by filling the sinkhole with concrete since last night. Pavement works will start as soon as the concrete hardens.
"The scheduled reopening is subject to the final evaluation of ECRL engineers, the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) and highway concessionaire Anih Berhad," he said after visiting the Assam Jawa toll construction site for the West Coast Expressway Section 6, here.
Nanta said the ministry, through LLM, would conduct a comprehensive investigation for long-term repairs.
In addition, there will be continuous monitoring to detect any movements underground at the site, he added.
Last night, a sinkhole appeared at KM66.1 of the highway near the Bentong toll plaza, forcing the dual-carriageway to be closed to all vehicles.
The sinkhole formed after the road caved in and repair works were immediately carried out.
Anih Bhd has advised road users to a take a detour.
Those travelling to Kuala Lumpur from Kuantan can exit at the Bentong east exit (near the Benus industrial) and enter the Bentong west exit (near Bentong toll plaza).
Meanwhile, vehicles heading to Kuantan from Kuala Lumpur will be diverted to the Lingkaran Tengah Utama intersection, which was previously known as Central Spine Road.