PASIR MAS: Nearly 2,000 residents from nine villages have been severely impacted following the collapse of a vital bridge near Kampung Rong Chenok, which was swept away by strong flood currents last month.
Imam Muda Muhammad Zahir Johari of the Mukim Rong Chenok Mosque said that the bridge, constructed in 1988, was the primary link for residents to access Pasir Mas town.
"The recent floods caused nearly 100 metres of the bridge to collapse, severely affecting the community, including 120 secondary school students and 200 Tahfiz students.
"Villagers are now forced to rely on a 30-kilometre detour via Jalan Kampung Bukit Panau and the Tanah Merah-Pasir Mas Highway, which takes 30 minutes, compared to the usual 15-minute journey.
"During floods, we are completely cut off, as the alternative route through Kampung Kuang also becomes submerged. We urge the government to address this issue urgently," Muhammad Zahir said.
Meanwhile, resident Muhamad Fakruddin Yusuf, 45, said the bridge collapsed due to the force of floodwaters and debris accumulation beneath it.
"The pressure from the floodwaters, along with debris such as grass trapped at the base, ultimately led to the collapse," he said. - Bernama