RECURRING sinkholes along Jalan Bagan Lalang in Seberang Perai have become a growing concern for residents, the State Assembly was told today.
Phee Syn Tze (PH-Sungai Puyu) highlighted the urgency of addressing these issues to ensure rapid development in the area is safe and sustainable during the debate on Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Ramli Ngah Talib’s address at the State Assembly sitting.
She noted that the area was originally a mangrove swamp and that the soil may not have been fully cleared or stabilised before road construction.
“Rapid development in the area, including numerous housing projects and industrial zones, has dramatically increased traffic, with heavy vehicles, lorries, and containers frequently using the road. The route has become a key access point for vehicles heading to the Sungai Lokan industrial area, putting additional strain on the infrastructure,” Phee said.
Preliminary investigations by Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) revealed rapid underground water flows beneath the road, contributing to soil instability. She highlighted that the IWK SPI 228 plant, originally built to serve 63,000 users, now supports 137,000 users — more than double its intended capacity — further adding to potential subsidence risks.
Phee stressed that underground soil and water conditions must be thoroughly investigated, especially given the heavy traffic load.
“The sinkhole issue is no longer just a road surface problem, but a matter of geological and safety risks that could endanger many road users,” she warned.
She called for a comprehensive technical study and the implementation of long-term solutions, rather than temporary repairs, and urged the state government to consider a bypass or alternative route for heavy vehicles to reduce traffic pressure on Jalan Bagan Lalang.
Beyond road safety, Phee also raised concerns over land tax, particularly involving the Permatang Pauh Volunteer Fire Brigade, and urged the state government to review their case for a reasonable reduction. She also highlighted issues relating to houses built on cemetery land.
On a positive note, she revealed that Sungai Puyu will soon have a new Bagan Ajam Health Clinic, currently under construction at Jalan Thamby Kecil, which will benefit residents in the surrounding area. With the new clinic, the constituency will have both a health clinic and a rural clinic to serve its growing population.
However, Phee cautioned that road infrastructure and traffic flow must keep pace with development.
“Jalan Thamby Kecil, leading to Jalan Raja Uda, is currently narrow and serves as a main route for residents. Without improvements, congestion could worsen once the clinic begins operations. I hope the authorities will consider road widening and traffic system upgrades in the area,” she said.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi