IWK targets Nov 7 completion for Penang sinkhole repairs
Initial investigations point to a possible displaced sewer pipe joint beneath Lebuhraya Mayang Pasir in Bayan Baru.
Indah Water Konsortium Sdn Bhd (IWK) estimates that fixing a sinkhole on Lebuhraya Mayang Pasir in Bayan Baru, Penang, will require at least 10 days. The company said it aims to finish by Nov 7, subject to weather conditions.
Public complaints prompted IWK to investigate the location. Its initial assessment suggests that a joint in an underground sewer pipe may have become dislocated, potentially causing the sinkhole.
According to IWK, the pipe is more than 30 years old, has a diameter of about 300mm and is buried approximately four metres below ground. It said there had been no earlier reports of a similar incident in the area or complaints concerning sewer defects.
IWK reported that conditions were under control by 8pm on Wednesday and that safety precautions were in place. It will keep monitoring the location while investigating the cause.
The company also said its inspection work across Penang includes CCTV checks and ground-penetrating radar scans to identify ageing sewer pipelines that may need upgrading. It will work with the relevant authorities on infrastructure restoration and public safety.
