Penang ramp collapse: Investigations complete, contractor negligence to blame, says Dr Johari Basri
The Star Online, 6 July 2013
A file picture of the collapsed Second Penang Bridge ramp.
KUCHING: Investigations into the collapse of the second Penang Bridge ramp, which caused one death, has indicated "shortcomings" by the contractor, said Occupational Health and Safety director general Datuk Dr Johari Basri.
"We have concluded investigations. We have identified some of the shortcomings due to negligence by the contractor," Basri told a press conference here.
Although Basri was circumspect when pressed for details, he did say the shortcomings involved both "procedural and technical" aspects.
"Right now we are preparing the charges. Once that is completed, we'll have to discuss it with the public prosecutor to get consent," he said.
"We have an appointment next week. For now, all I can say is we have identified negligence.
"We have engaged technical experts and are waiting for their final assessment," he said.
On June 6, former policeman Tajudin Zainal Abidin, 45, was killed when one of the ramps connected to the Second Penang Bridge collapsed and crushed his car.
A stop-work order was issued immediately following the collapse.
Following the incident, the Works Ministry has also put together an 11-member technical group to increase safety.
The Second Penang Bridge is estimated to cost RM3bil with a total length of 24 km. Construction began on November 2008.
