Remedial works underway at Jln Stakan bridge after further erosion raises safety concerns

KUCHING (Jan 9): Remedial works, including filling all hollow undersoil areas with concrete, are now being carried out at the bridge along Jalan Stakan here following further erosion that raised serious safety concerns.

Michael Kong, special assistant to Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen, said residents had raised concerns as early as May 2025 over possible road sinkage at the bridge.

In response, the authorities placed metal sheets over the affected area to allow vehicles to continue using the bridge.

“It was clear from the outset that this was only a temporary measure, meant to buy time for proper and permanent repairs.

“Unfortunately, that time was not used effectively,” he said in a statement.

Kong said that in mid-December 2025, he and Chong visited the site and observed that the condition of the bridge had deteriorated significantly.

“The structure was visibly compromised and appeared to be on the brink of collapse. We warned then that failure to act promptly could lead to a serious incident,” he said.

That warning materialised yesterday when a significant portion of land next to the bridge further eroded, resulting in serious structural integrity issues at the bridge and posing greater danger to road users, he added.

Following the incident, Kong said he visited the site again today and spoke directly with the contractors involved in the repair works.

“They informed me that proper remedial works are now being carried out, including filling all hollow undersoil areas with concrete.

“The contractors have also assured that works will be expedited and completed today to minimise inconvenience to the public,” he said.

Kong said the situation would continue to be closely monitored to ensure that the repairs are properly completed and that the bridge is safe for all road users.

He also urged the relevant authorities to act more proactively in addressing infrastructure issues in the future, particularly when early warning signs have already been identified and public safety is at risk.