Tuaran: Road users normally taking the Jalan Kiulu-Rondogung route towards Ranau are advised to use the alternative Jalan Tamparuli-Ranau route as a landslide had occurred on the road that connects Kg Lokos and Kg Pahu, Kiulu, on Tuesday.
Tuaran Public Works Department (PWD) District Engineer Farini Awang said the Jalan Pukak-Pahu-Nulu road at Km 19.200, Kiulu was closed at 12 midnight after receiving a report on the incident.
He said on May 13, a small landslide occurred on the road after continuous rain, causing the route to be closed in one direction.
“Around 5pm on Tuesday, another landslide occurred at the same location, causing both directions to be closed,” he said when contacted Wednesday.
Farini said residents around the location can also use alternative routes along Jalan Tomis Tiong-Lokos and Jalan Bundu Tuhan.
“Safety cones and hazard signs with light reflection are also set up in preparation for maintenance work.
“Users are urged to abide by the instructions and signboards provided to avoid any unwanted incidents,” he said.
He added that PWD, in collaboration with the concession company, will inform on the road developments from time to time.
Meanwhile, works to construct a diversion at Km 19.2 of the Kiulu-Ranau road would start latest by today (Thursday).
Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Assistant Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai on Wednesday visited the affected site to inspect the damage, where he was briefed on the repair works by State Public Works Department Director Datuk Ali Ahmad Hamid.
“The Public Works Department will do a temporary diversion for all types of vehicles to pass and the work is expected to be completed in a few days. Works for a long-term solution are also being planned.
“As soon as we learned about the landslide, we immediately notified the Director and district engineer. The PWD quickly sealed off the road to avoid any untoward incident, and we thank them for their prompt action,” said Joniston, who is also the Kiulu Assemblyman.
According to Ali Ahmad, commuters could use the Tamparuli-Ranau road and the gravelled Pahu-Sinulihan road as alternative routes for the time being until the temporary diversion is completed.
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