December 4, 2025
Local
Local
GEORGE TOWN, Oct 23 — Continuous rainfall since early today triggered a landslide along Jalan Tun Sardon (Bukit Baru) in Balik Pulau this evening.
The incident, which occurred around 5pm, also brought down a tree that blocked the roadway.
As a result, the key route connecting Balik Pulau and Paya Terubong has been fully closed to all vehicles after being covered with soil and fallen trees, posing serious danger to motorists.
A dashcam recording captured the dramatic moment when a driver narrowly escaped the landslide by stopping just in time.
Penang Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) assistant director of operations John Sagun Francis said no casualties or vehicles were involved.
He said the department received a distress call at 4.56pm and immediately deployed 14 personnel from the Seri Balik Pulau Fire and Rescue Station (BBP), assisted by a team from the Paya Terubong BBP.
“Upon arrival, our team discovered a landslide from the hillside covering an area estimated at 30 by 20 square feet at the lower section of the road. The operations commander, fully equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE), conducted an initial assessment before clearing debris and removing the fallen tree to ensure site safety,” he said.
The case has since been handed over to the Public Works Department (JKR) and police for further action.
Meanwhile, state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari confirmed the incident in a Facebook post, advising motorists to adjust their travel plans as the road remains fully closed.
He added that response teams have been mobilised to assess risks and safeguard public safety. — Bernama
