Kuching South mayor reminds owners to seek approval for structures over drains after Jalan Mendu collapse

Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has warned property owners to seek approval before constructing structures over public drains following a recent collapse incident. On September 14, the unauthorised access point for a shop on Jalan Mendu collapsed under the weight of a seven-tonne lorry, revealing the safety risks associated with structures built over drainage systems without proper authorization.

The mayor of Kuching South, Datuk Wee Hong Seng, inspected the site and emphasized the importance of obtaining official approval before making alterations to existing structures. According to Section 136 of the Local Authorities Ordinance 1996, property owners must obtain written consent from the local council before erecting structures over sewers or pipelines.

The council has the authority to alter or demolish unauthorized structures, and the cost of such work would be borne by the responsible parties. Wee suggested that structures built over public drains should be designed and constructed to safely withstand the expected loads. He urged property owners, business operators, and residents within Kuching South jurisdiction to consult the council before constructing, extending, or altering any structures over drains or other local council infrastructure.

The mayor stressed that the safety of the structures and the surrounding public areas is a shared responsibility and that protecting lives and ensuring public safety remains MBKS's top priority.