Sungai Liat: The Bailey Bridge, erected as a temporary replacement for the collapsed Sungai Liat Bridge in Felda Sungai Klah, has officially opened to traffic at 6 pm today. The original bridge collapsed on April 20, leaving hundreds of residents stranded and disrupting connectivity in the area.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin, the chairman of the State Infrastructure, Energy, Water, and Public Transport committee, announced that the newly constructed 42.6-metre single-lane Bailey bridge is now operational in one direction. It is accessible to all vehicles with a load limit not exceeding 20 tonnes.

The installation of the Bailey bridge commenced on April 23 and reached completion by last Sunday, April 27. The temporary bridge serves as a vital link connecting Felda Sungai Klah, Felda Residence Hotspring, and Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Tisong. Motorists are advised to follow posted instructions and signage when using the new route.

The collapse of the Sungai Liat Bridge was attributed to culvert failure caused by a surge in currents and debris. The incident severed access to key areas, including Felda Residence Hotspring, Kampung Tisong, which is home to 500 orang asli, and the Buyong Mas Sanctuary Campsite. This resulted in 136 individuals, including 81 polytechnic students, being stranded.

In another update, Mohammad Nizar highlighted that the Perak Public Works Department (JKR) has allocated 137 maintenance projects at a total cost of RM15.285 million. These projects primarily address road maintenance, street lighting, and traffic light repairs. An online draw lot system was used to tender all 137 projects, which include 104 civil works and 33 electrical works. The appointed contractors are expected to adhere to the set specifications, cost, and timeline.