KL sinkhole not caused by infrastructure issues - Expert
A geologist has clarified that such incidents are often driven by natural factors, particularly in areas with underlying limestone.
SHAH ALAM - The recent appearance of a sinkhole in Kuala Lumpur has raised concerns about the city's infrastructure.
However, a geologist has clarified that such incidents are often driven by natural factors, particularly in areas with underlying limestone.
Nusantara Academy of Strategic Research (NASR) Geologist Prof Dr Azmi Hassan said that sinkhole in Masjid India was primarily caused by the combination of limestone geology, heavy rainfall, and proximity to the Sungai Klang.
"Sinkholes like this, not only in Malaysia but globally often result from natural causes, especially in areas with underlying limestone, as seen in Masjid India and much of KL," he told Sinar Daily when contacted.
He pointed out that the proximity of Masjid India to the Sungai Klang likely exacerbated the situation.
"The combination of limestone geology, heavy rainfall, and the closeness to the river were key contributors to the sinkhole formation in Jalan Masjid India and nearby areas," he said.
Azmi also refuted the idea that Kuala Lumpur's above-ground infrastructure is the main cause of the sinkhole issue.
“Sinkholes are not widespread; they occur sporadically.
"However, when constructing large structures, it is crucial to consider the geological factors beneath, especially the type of rock.
“If it is limestone, certain precautions are necessary. To say that KL's infrastructure is overloaded and causing sinkholes does not seem accurate to me, as sinkholes occur worldwide," he said.
He emphasised that the incident at Jalan Masjid India is particularly concerning because it happened in a heavily trafficked pedestrian area, amplifying its impact.
"I do not think halting future development is the solution, but it is essential to understand what is beneath the surface, whether it is utilities, sewage, drainage, or limestone, before building any infrastructure," he added.
Azmi then stressed that there is no reason to consider relocating Malaysia's capital due to the sinkhole issue.
"Unlike Jakarta, which is gradually sinking, Kuala Lumpur's challenges with sinkholes are largely due to its natural limestone foundation.
"When limestone interacts with water and acidity, especially from sewage, it creates conditions that can lead to sinkholes.
"While these occurrences cannot be entirely avoided, we should be vigilant about small warning signs like cracks or minor sinkholes that appear frequently.
"It is crucial to focus on preventive measures and raise public awareness, not just about the signs of landslides, but also about the indicators of potential sinkholes. Sinkhole awareness should be given the same priority as landslide awareness," he said.
On Monday, KL Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Maimunah Mohd Sharif announced the formation of a task force to address the sinkhole issue, composed of members from Kuala Lumpur City Hall, the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP), the Department of Minerals and Geoscience Malaysia and the Public Works Department.
Maimunah said that this task force had already been activated to investigate the situation.
Meanwhile, the search continues for 48-year-old Indian tourist Vijayaletchumy, who disappeared after falling into an eight-metre-deep sinkhole on Jalan Masjid India on Aug 23.
CCTV footage captured the moment she vanished while walking towards a nearby temple.
The search and rescue efforts have faced difficulties due to strong underground currents and hazardous conditions.
Despite deploying teams of scuba divers and implementing a new flushing method to clear blockages, there have been no significant developments.
Authorities have assured the public that KL remains safe, and the search for Vijayaletchumy will continue until she is found.
