REPAIR work is ongoing to address a three-metre-deep sinkhole that appeared in Taman Sri Nibong, Pantai Jerejak, and is expected to be completed within a week.
Penang Agrotechnology, Food Security and Cooperative Development Committee chairman Fahmi Zainol, who is also the Pantai Jerejak assemblyman, explained that the sinkhole, which was discovered on Oct 16, was caused by a leaking underground Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) pipe.
“IWK is carrying out the necessary maintenance to fix the sinkhole.
“We advise road users to take alternative routes as the road to Taman Sri Nibong via Krystal Point will be closed. The closure also applies to the route from Taman Sri Nibong to Krystal Point for the duration of the repairs,” Fahmi told at a press conference in Komtar today.
Images of the sinkhole, which have gone viral on social media, showed a school bus with its tyres stuck in the cavity. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident.
In a separate matter, addressing concerns about the upcoming northeast monsoon season and its potential impact on food security in Penang, Fahmi assured the public that relevant state agencies have taken preventive measures to ensure an ample food supply.
“About 90% of our farmers do not operate in flood-prone areas.
“Nevertheless, agencies like the Veterinary Services Department (JPV) and Penang Fisheries Department have already advised farmers and fishermen to remain cautious and vigilant during the monsoon,” he added.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud