Kuala lumpur: The Construction Industry Development Board of Malaysia (CIDB) has commenced a comprehensive investigation into the collapse of a temporary steel canopy at the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) construction site on Jalan Lingkaran Tengah 2 (MRR2) FT28, heading towards Batu Caves, which occurred last Tuesday. This move aims to ascertain any non-compliance issues that may have led to the incident.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi announced that the investigation is being conducted under Section 34C of the Malaysian Construction Industry Development Act (Act 520). The CIDB has also mandated that the project developer, Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL), halt all construction activities in the affected area immediately.
Minister Nanta emphasized that while the project is not directly under the ministry’s jurisdiction, CIDB has taken the initiative to conduct a detailed investigation to ensure public safety. Construction work around the incident site has been stopped effective November 19, pending the identification of the incident’s cause and the assurance of enhanced safety measures.
The incident has raised public concern, especially among road users, as it took place on a public road. A woman narrowly escaped death when her vehicle was crushed by falling construction debris from the project. She was rescued by members of the public moments before the arrival of emergency services.
In a related event, Minister Nanta distributed 12 sets of launching nose components to nine Public Works Departments (JKD) in anticipation of the Northeast Monsoon (MTL). These components, valued at RM21 million, are vital for the installation of JKD or Bailey Bridges, ensuring quick and effective responses to road disconnections caused by natural disasters.
The Bailey Bridge system offers a rapid and cost-effective solution compared to traditional construction methods, facilitating swift restoration in areas where connectivity has been disrupted. The launching nose equipment is crucial for the efficient installation of temporary bridges in disaster-affected areas.