Penang: Sewerage Upgrade Works Ongoing, Jalan Burma Sinkhole Under Probe - IWK

GEORGE TOWN, Sept 22 (Bernama) -- Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) Sdn Bhd has been conducting—and will continue to perform—inspections of sewerage assets across Penang Island, including along Jalan Burma, where a sinkhole appeared yesterday.

In a statement tonight, IWK said the investigations include comprehensive Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) inspections and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) scanning to assess the condition of the sewer lines.

IWK said this project forms part of the Malaysian Plan under the Department of Sewerage Services (JPP); meanwhile, upgrading and refurbishment works are being implemented through funding from the Sewerage Capital Contribution (SCC) fund.

“Across Penang Island, the pipeline network spans 297 km, and the upgrade and refurbishment works will amount to RM284.7 million, as part of ongoing efforts to address the ageing sewerage infrastructure on the island.

“As for the incident along Jalan Burma, IWK will continue its investigations to confirm the root cause of the recent collapse,” according to the statement.

IWK confirmed that a collapsed sewer caused the sinkhole due to a joint dislocation, which can occur unexpectedly under heavy loads and not as a result of ageing assets, as claimed.

It also confirmed that the pipeline initially identified and claimed as a force main (a pressurised sewer pipe) is actually located just upstream of the sinkhole, and the collapse involved a 525mm diameter gravity line, not the force main as reported.

“For public safety, the affected section of the road has been temporarily closed, with urgent repair works now entering day two and expected to take another four days to complete.

“IWK is taking all necessary measures to address the issue promptly and safely, and thanks the public for their patience and understanding during this time,” it said.

Yesterday, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) said the sinkhole that appeared on Jalan Burma near the Jalan Transfer intersection was caused by a leak in a 300-millimetre sewer pipe owned by IWK.

-- BERNAMA