GEORGE TOWN: A plastic barrier has been placed around a sinkhole in Bayan Lepas as measures are being taken to address the incident, said state Infrastructure and Transport Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari.
Zairil said the sinkhole, which appeared at the intersection of Jalan Datuk Ismail Hashim and Jalan Kenari on Tuesday evening (Nov 4), measures 3.5m wide, 5m long and 1.9m deep.
"The Penang Public Works Department reported a new sinkhole incident along Jalan Kenari in Sungai Ara, Bayan Lepas. The sinkhole is located in front of SMK Sungai Ara. We are grateful that no injuries or accidents were reported due to the incident," he said in a statement on Tuesday night.
Immediate actions have been taken, including installing a plastic barrier to cordon off the area.
Temporary road closures are in place to divert traffic to Jalan Sungai Ara 1, Jalan Persiaran Relau and Jalan Kedidi.
The state Public Works Department has asked Penang Water Supply Corporation and Indah Water Konsortium to conduct an asset investigation.
"The actual cause of the sinkhole will still require a detailed study," Zairil said.
He added that the department is committed to ensuring the safety of road users and will provide updates as soon as there are further developments, thanking the community for their patience during this time.
It was reported on Tuesday evening (Nov 4) that a large sinkhole had appeared in Bayan Lepas near a school. In a video that has since gone viral, motorists could be seen avoiding the sinkhole along a road known for heavy traffic, especially during school hours.
Jalan Kenari has been closed until further notice.
