A SINKHOLE measuring 1.5m wide and 2.5m long along Jalan Burmah, Penang near Komtar which appeared about 10am today has forced the road to be closed to traffic.
A check revealed that traffic policemen were at the scene to control traffic.
The sinkhole is believed to have been caused by a burst underground sewage pipe.
Monitoring and repair work was being carried out by Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) and motorists were advised to use alternative routes.
The route was closed immediately for safety reasons and for monitoring by the IWK contractor.
A worker at a nearby food premises said his employer became aware of the incident at 2.30am, but suspected it was only minor damage.
However, at around 10am this morning, many heard a loud noise before seeing water overflowing from the hole.
"This route is congested every day, especially during school holidays. Customers also reported that they were trapped in a traffic jam of almost three kilometres due to the closure of this road," he said. - September 21, 2025
