Bridge collapse cuts off main road linking Kubu Gajah and Paya Jaras Hilir

In the early hours of the morning, a bridge along Jalan Kubu Gajah succumbed to the forces of nature, resulting in the closure of a crucial road that links Kampung Kubu Gajah and Paya Jaras Hilir. The collapse, which was reportedly witnessed around 2 a.m., was triggered by the powerful currents of Sungai Subang, which were unleashed by a substantial downpour of rainfall.

The Petaling district Public Works Department (PWD) reported that 48mm of rain had been recorded at the monitoring station in Paya Jaras Hilir. The strong currents in Sungai Subang, a consequence of the intense rainfall, eroded the riverbank and jeopardized the bridge's structural integrity.

The collapse left a significant portion of the road in a state of disrepair, with the asphalt surface visibly torn apart, and portions of the road having plummeted into the riverbank below. The department emphasized that the affected stretch had been completely sealed off to vehicular traffic to ensure the safety of the public.

To address the situation, a comprehensive traffic management plan has been devised and enacted, incorporating the setting up of warning signs, safety barriers, and diversion signs. Motorists navigating towards Merbau Sempak and Kubu Gajah are advised to utilize Jalan Merbau Sempak leading to Masjid Nurul Iman, while those traveling to Paya Jaras Hilir can still reach the area via Jalan Paya Jaras Hilir from Federal Route 54 (FT54).

The department has expressed confidence that a temporary Bailey bridge will be erected in the medium term to re-establish connectivity between the impacted areas. Ultimately, a permanent bridge will be built to replace the structure that has fallen victim to the elements. The incident unfolded amidst a series of heavy rains that led to flooding in several regions surrounding Sungai Buloh, prompting road closures and the establishment of temporary evacuation centers.