IWK suspects dislocated joint on 30-year-old pipe caused Bayan Baru sinkhole, repairs due Nov 7

GEORGE TOWN, Oct 29 — The IWK (Indah Water Konsortium Sdn Bhd) has initiated an urgent investigation into a sinkhole that emerged along Lebuhraya Mayang Pasir in Bayan Baru, suspected to be caused by a dislocated sewer pipe joint. IWK announced that its site examination commenced immediately upon receiving public complaints about the incident, and emergency repairs to restore the affected sewage infrastructure were also set in motion, scheduled for completion by November 7, 2026, weather permitting.

According to preliminary findings, the incident is believed to have been triggered by a dislocated pipe joint. The affected sewer pipe, approximately 300 millimeters in diameter, is situated at a depth of about four meters and is over 30 years old. This marks the first reported incident of its kind in the area, with no prior complaints about sewer defects recorded.

The company stated that they would continue detailed investigations and closely monitor the site to ascertain the precise cause of the incident, ensuring the situation remains under control with temporary protective measures in place. IWK conducts regular scheduled inspections as part of its risk management approach towards sewage infrastructure and is currently carrying out extensive close-circuit television (CCTV) inspections and ground-penetrating radar (GPR) scanning throughout Penang to evaluate aging infrastructure and pinpoint areas necessitating pipeline upgrades.

The company reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring public safety, minimizing environmental impact, and collaborating closely with relevant authorities and stakeholders to restore the affected infrastructure promptly and responsibly. The site will continue to be closely monitored, with all necessary support provided until restoration works are completed.

A sinkhole measuring 2.5 meters in width and four meters in depth appeared on Lebuhraya Mayang Pasir in Bayan Baru today, likely due to damage to the IWK sewage drainage system. State Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari indicated that a Public Works Department (JKR) investigation suggested the sinkhole was primarily caused by a displaced pipe joint.