Lata Rek Suspension Bridge: ICU JPM To Discuss With Technical Agencies Tomorrow

KUALA KRAI, Jan 7 (Bernama) -- The Implementation Coordination Unit under the Prime Minister's Department (ICU JPM) will hold a meeting with technical agencies tomorrow regarding the type of bridge that will be suitable for construction to replace the collapsed suspension bridge in Kampung Chatel Damai, Lata Rek here.

Director of ICU JPM in Kelantan, Jasri Kasim said further discussions will involve agencies such as the Public Works Department (JKR), Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), and the Kuala Krai Land and District Office.

“We are researching and evaluating the most suitable method for repairing or rebuilding the bridge based on its location, terrain conditions, and the expected completion date to meet the needs of residents who need to commute.

"The most suitable method will be discussed with other technical agencies at tomorrow's meeting," he told Bernama today.

Earlier, ICU JPM deputy director-general (Special Projects Coordination) Ross Rafizal Rosli, along with representatives of several government agencies and the state government, and villagers spent nearly an hour inspecting the condition of the suspension bridge at Chatel Damai, Lata Rek here. The bridge had collapsed on Jan 1.

In a statement last Friday, the Prime Minister’s Office said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had directed funds to be allocated for the immediate replacement of the suspension bridge, which collapsed, causing injuries to the public and disrupting the daily access of nearby residents.

Following the announcement, the Kelantan State Government expressed its appreciation to the Prime Minister and instructed the Kuala Krai Land and District Office to coordinate all related matters with the JICU JPM and relevant agencies to ensure the work is expedited and carried out in an orderly manner.

Last Thursday, a wedding celebration turned chaotic when the suspension bridge that guests were using suddenly collapsed, causing several people to fall into the Sungai Chatel Damai at Lata Rek. The incident went viral on social media.

-- BERNAMA