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KUCHING, Jan 30: A landslide has disrupted travel on the Song-Sipan-Temalat Road in Kapit, forcing authorities to temporarily close the route. The incident, which occurred early this morning, is believed to be the result of continuous heavy rainfall since yesterday (Jan 29).
Federal Minister of Works, Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, confirmed the closure in a Facebook post today. He stated that the Public Works Department (JKR) in Kapit has implemented a diversion to allow light vehicles to pass through. However, heavy vehicles are prohibited from using the route due to the unstable and unsafe soil conditions in the affected area.
Nanta, who is also the Kapit Member of Parliament (MP), revealed that several other landslides have been reported in the Kapit and Belaga districts. These include areas near the TV & Radio Transmission Tower entrance, Lorong 1 at Taman Bian Hua in Kapit District, and Kilometer 34 on the Menjawah-Belaga Road and Bakun-Belaga Road.
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Kapit Division Resident Elvis Didit, along with Katibas assemblyman Lidam Asan and Kapit District Officer Harry Bruce, visited the landslide site to assess the damage. The Kapit District Disaster Management Committee has been instructed to monitor the situation closely, especially with the ongoing bad weather. Meanwhile, the Belaga District Disaster Management Committee has started clearing affected routes to ensure safe passage for road users.
JKR has also placed appropriate signage at the landslide locations to warn the public and ensure their safety. Nanta urged residents and road users in the affected areas to remain cautious and follow instructions from authorities.
As the rainy season continues, the risk of further landslides remains high. Authorities are working tirelessly to restore normalcy and ensure the safety of all residents and travelers.