KUALA LUMPUR – The recent sinkhole incident in Jalan Masjid India here has underscored the urgent need for enhanced infrastructure maintenance which should be undertaken regularly using a dedicated maintenance fund.
Malaysia Institute of Transport (MiTRANS) director and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Associate Professor Wan Mazlina Wan Mohamed said the fund is a necessary investment that is essential for public safety.
“Currently, Malaysia seems to prioritise new construction over the upkeep of existing infrastructure.
“In contrast, European countries routinely invest in summer maintenance projects to keep their infrastructure in optimal condition.
“A dedicated maintenance fund would ensure ongoing infrastructure stability and help prevent costly and safety disruptions,” she told Bernama.
The mechanical engineering expert said preventive maintenance not only addresses minor issues before they become major problems but also extends the lifespan of infrastructure.
“Investing in preventive maintenance is crucial for protecting lives. Well-maintained infrastructure significantly reduces the risk of failures that could jeopardise public safety.
“Allocating funds for routine maintenance minimises operational business disruptions and contributes to overall safety,” she added.
Wan Mazlina highlighted the role of data-driven decision-making in infrastructure management.
“Businesses and authorities must leverage data analytics to monitor infrastructure performance and make informed decisions about resource allocation. However, Malaysia’s fragmented data collection and the reluctance of private companies to share information impede this process,” she said.
Wan Mazlina added that establishing a comprehensive and integrated database could improve forecasting and planning, thereby reducing infrastructure-related issues and enhancing safety and efficiency
Yesterday, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said that mapping utilities is crucial to understand the layout of pipelines, electric cables and other utility channels below ground, as many areas contain overlapping infrastructure which may be inaccurately mapped by utility companies.
“I have received many complaints that during the development of projects, dredging work often reveals large TNB cables, for example, which were not indicated on the map. Hence, there is a need for collaboration with the Kuala Lumpur mayor to ensure that we not only have mapping on the surface but also utility mapping,” he said.
The recent sinkhole tragedy on Friday saw a 48-year-old female Indian tourist fall into an 8-metre deep hole when the pavement along Jalan Masjid India opened up beneath her suddenly.
Search-and-rescue operations for the victim, identified as Vijayalaksmi, 48, have entered the third day today.
Six sewer manholes in the area and at the Indah Water Konsortium sewage plant in Pantai Dalam have been opened, but search and rescue personnel have not found any new leads regarding the victim’s location. – August 25, 2024