BALING - The temporary bridge being built in Kampung Iboi, Kupang here, to replace the bridge that collapsed in the floods and water surge phenomenon last Monday, is expected to be ready for use tomorrow.
Works Ministry secretary -general Datuk Wan Ahmad Uzir Wan Sulaiman said installation of the steel 'Old Bailey Bridge' began yesterday by 20 staff from the Road Division and Mechanical Works Branch of the Kedah Public Works Department (JKR) and assisted by 10 members of the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM).
"Residents have requested us to complete the temporary bridge as soon as possible before Aidiladha so that they can make preparations to celebrate the festival," he said when contacted here today.
He said the 90-foot-long and 18-foot -wide bridge could accommodate loads of up to five tonnes.
All the heavy machinery materials used in building he bridge belonged or obtained from the JKR store, and therefore, its construction did not involve any cost, he added.
Meanwhile, Kampung Iboi Development and Security Committee chairman Abu Hasan Samah, 62, said the construction of the temporary bridge would facilitate the daily affairs of about 3,000 residents from several villages in the area.
He said the bridge which collapsed last Monday served as a link for residents from Kampung Masjid Iboi, Kampung Bok Bak, Kampung Tanjung Luas and Kampung Tanjung Nering to go to the town and since then they were forced to take the longer route.
"Residents in Kampung Iboi also used the bridge to go to the mosque across the river, and we are indeed grateful to the government for providing us with the temporary bridge and hope it will be ready soon," he added. - BERNAMA