Durability of new suspension bridge hangs in doubt

Residents of Kg Timbang Batu, Kota Marudu have urged the relevant authorities to inspect the newly built suspension bridge.

According to their spokesman, villagers had doubts about the durability of the two-month old bridge for they believed its pillars were built using ‘OT’ (other timbers).

“We are of the opinion that this new bridge will not last long,” he told Actionline.

But what worries the villagers more is the soil erosion right beneath the pillars at one end of the bridge.

“When the bridge was under construction we had pointed it out to the relevant authorities who then promised to build a retention wall to ensure our safety.”

He said unfortunately, the promised wall was never constructed until bridge project was completed on April 20 this year.

He said although they were grateful to the government for the facility, they felt unhappy about its quality.

“Recently, we noticed some earth movements at the base of the pillars after a heavy rain. It only heightened our fear of using the bridge,” he added.

He said in order to be always safe than sorry most villagers preferred to use the old suspension bridge.

“We don’t deny that the new bridge is beautiful but we’re concerned about our safety especially that of the children. Some may argue that if they fall, they would be cushioned by the water below. But what if they don’t know how to swim?”

When contacted, a spokesperson from the Kota Marudu District Office suggested to Actionline to call the Sabah Development Office instead.

When Actionline did call, there was no response from the other end.