SG PETANI – The Kedah Public Works Department (PWD) has closed the Sg Tupah bridge connecting Merbok and the town here following flooding recently to ensure the structure’s stability and safety.
In a Facebook post yesterday, the state PWD said it has closed the bridge from Wednesday – after mudslides and floods hit Gunung Jerai – until further notice.
Motorists heading from Bedong to Merbok and Tg Dawai are advised to use alternative roads, namely Jalan Pintasan Semeling, Jalan Kg Bendang Dalam, Jalan Pengkalan Bujang, Jalan Simpang Tiga Merbok/Batu Hampar, Jalan Kg Semeling and Jalan Kg Bendang Dalam/Kg Bujang.
Sources said the impact of the rushing water from Gunung Jerai caused some damage to the bridge, and the authorities are assessing its roadworthiness.
District PWD officials could not be reached for comment.
Meanwhile, the Kedah Health Department has identified 33 Covid-19-positive flood victims.
They are in Categories 1 and 2, and were observing home quarantine.
State Health Department director Dr Othman Warijo said three have been warded at Sultan Abdul Halim Hospital and another 14 placed at the low-risk treatment and quarantine centre here.
Another eight in stable condition remain under home quarantine.
It is learnt that more non-government organisations are heading to the affected areas in Yan and Kuala Muda districts to aid residents.
The floods have caused more than RM100 million in damage, including to villagers’ household and electrical items. – The Vibes, August 20, 2021
