THE Penang Island City Council (MBPP) is planning to take a civil suit against those responsible for damaging the historical overhead pedestrian bridge near Pengkalan Raja Uda ferry terminal in Weld Quay yesterday.
State Local Government, Housing, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jagdeep Singh Deo said the council, which is the structure owner, would take action against responsible party for an act of negligence.
He said driver of the trailer carrying a piling crane should take note of the height of the overhead pedestrian bridge before passing the area.
“It is very unfortunate that the driver did not take heed of this but crashed onto the bridge. Fortunately, there was no casualty involved in the incident.
“Therefore, those responsible need to bear the loss of the bridge and all the consequential damages involved.
“We are not tolerating this as it was a serious incident.
“In fact, MBPP had lodged a police report and I hope investigators would probe the matter to ensure action will be taken,” he told a press conference in Komtar today.
The structure, built in 1970s, was believed to be the first such overhead pedestrian bridge in Penang.
The accident happened at about 4pm yesterday.
Since then, the council personnel had been working round the clock to dismantle the damaged bridge until this morning.
State Welfare, Caring Society and Environment Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh praised MBPP personnel for showing their commitment in handling the situation.
“They have done a good job by dismantling the bridge overnight for the safety of the public.
“The safety precautionary measure must be looked into as two million visitors are expected to flood the state this weekend in view of Thaipusam and Chap Goh Meh celebrations,” he said.
MBPP mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang was saddened over the untoward incident.
He said the council viewed the case seriously and called for investigation to be carried out against the driver.
“On a short-term measure, we are looking to have a pedestrian crossing to facilitate the traffic that has now resumed to normal,” he said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud