SIPITANG: Residents of Kampung Meligan are urging the Government to construct a higher, concrete bridge to replace the existing one, which is frequently flooded due to heavy rain.
A resident, Jenifer Opai, said frequent flooding has caused significant disruption to traffic, making the bridge impassable for most vehicles, except for lorries since 10am on Friday.
The flooding impacts several villages, including Kampung Long Pasia, Kampung Long Mio, Kampung Batu Nuduk, Kampung Abpa Kemadang, and Kampung Iburuh, as they rely on the bridge to reach Sipitang.
“The bridge is too low, making it easily flooded due to the heavy rain that started since Thursday. Many vehicles are stuck, whether they are heading to Sipitang town or returning to their villages,” she said.
Farmers who need to market their agricultural produce in Sipitang are particularly affected, as they are unable to transport their goods across the flooded bridge.
“The strong river current during floods poses a danger to small vehicles and even four-wheel drives, which risk being swept away, potentially leading to accidents,” she added.
This bridge, built 33 years ago to transport Sabah Forest Industry (SFI) logs, has never been upgraded to a concrete bridge higher than the river level.
Despite discussions over the years about upgrading the bridge, no concrete action has been taken, leaving residents uncertain about when or if the necessary improvements will be made.
Jenifer urged the Government to upgrade the bridge as it is essential for improving safety, ensuring reliable transportation, and fostering socio-economic growth in the region.
“The flooding deters tourists and hampers the movement of emergency vehicles, including ambulances, which can be critical for patients, especially pregnant women,” she emphasised.
