Temporary one-lane diversion along Jln Batu Kitang/Jln Haji Baki after road collapse

KUCHING (Jan 9): A temporary one-lane diversion will be opened along Jalan Batu Kitang/Jalan Haji Baki from 6pm today to facilitate traffic following a road shoulder collapse in the area.

The Public Works Department (JKR) Sarawak said the diversion is part of immediate measures while repair works are being arranged to address the affected stretch.

JKR Sarawak director Datu Dr Cassidy Morris inspected the site earlier today to assess the situation and ensure prompt remedial action.

“Repair works would be carried out as soon as possible to safeguard the safety and comfort of road users,” it said in a statement.

Road users are advised to drive with caution and adhere to traffic signs placed at the site.

The collapse occurred after a pipe burst near the Haji Baki traffic lights, which caused the road shoulder embankment to fail, resulting in soil erosion and loss of ground support beneath Jalan Haji Baki/Jalan Batu Kitang.

Sarawak Water Sdn Bhd (SWSB) said preliminary investigations indicate that the pipe burst was triggered by a landslide near the traffic lights, causing ground movement that imposed excessive stress on the 1,050mm Mild Steel Cement-Lined (MSCL) pumping mains pipeline.