By Fitri Hazim Hazam
PUCHONG, Sept 8 — A comprehensive investigation to identify the cause of the embankment collapse at the Sungai Rasau Water Supply Scheme (Phase One) project, which occurred yesterday afternoon, will be conducted by Pengurusan Air Selangor Sdn Bhd.
State executive councillor for infrastructure and agriculture Izham Hashim said the investigation will involve consultants with geotechnical expertise appointed by Air Selangor.
A full report to determine the cause of the incident will be submitted within three months.
“The construction site has also been sealed off to allow for further investigation and to prevent other incidents from occurring.
“Our preliminary observation shows no breach of construction conditions, and there was no strong water movement in the lake next to the construction area.
“The water level remained the same, and there were no heaps or embankments of soil in the area. Everything happened unexpectedly, and we will investigate,” he said after visiting the construction site today.
Izham added that the consultants will conduct a detailed study to assess the damage and the structure that requires repairs, to continue with the water supply project.
“We estimate it will take about a year to resolve everything before we can proceed with the project. If it can be completed earlier, that is even better, but otherwise, within a year.
“This incident has slightly affected the water supply plans, but we have other mitigation measures in place. The state is currently drafting a plan to meet the additional water needs for Air Selangor next year,” he said.
Simultaneously, the councillor assured that the construction area is under control, and regular monitoring will be conducted to ensure the safety of workers, the public, and the environment.
“Alhamdulillah, there were no fatalities as the incident was detected early, all safety measures were taken, and the sirens were sounded.
“A total of 169 workers were accounted for, and everyone has been confirmed safe, with no one missing,” Izham said.
During the 2pm incident, the embankment collapsed, causing water from the lake to flood the construction site, but no injuries were reported among construction workers or the public.
