Major Road Collapse Cuts Off Lahad Datu-Tawau Route, Vehicles Left Stranded
LAHAD DATU: Traffic between Lahad Datu and Tawau came to a standstill this evening after a major section of Jalan Silam suddenly collapsed, forcing the closure of the main road in both directions.
The incident left numerous vehicles stranded after an estimated 50-metre stretch of the road suffered severe structural damage and became completely impassable.
Lahad Datu District Officer Firuz Idzualdeen @ Benetty Mohd Dzul said there is currently no alternative route available for motorists travelling either to Tawau or Lahad Datu.
According to him, the district authorities have already coordinated with the local branch of the Jabatan Kerja Raya to carry out emergency diversion works in the affected area.
“At the moment, the road is fully inaccessible and there is no alternative route available. However, the Public Works Department is currently constructing a temporary diversion which is expected to be completed within about an hour,” he said when contacted today.
He also urged road users to exercise caution when approaching the affected location and to comply with instructions issued by security personnel and authorities stationed at the scene.
Motorists have also been advised to plan their journeys carefully as traffic congestion and travel delays are expected following the disruption of the key route.
The road collapse quickly gained public attention after several photographs and videos from the scene went viral on social media platforms.
Images circulating online showed extensive damage to the road surface, including large cracks and collapsed sections that rendered both directions unsafe for traffic.
Several vehicles were seen stranded near the damaged area as motorists were forced to halt their journeys due to the sudden road failure.
The incident is expected to significantly affect daily commuting and logistics activities along Sabah’s east coast, as Jalan Silam serves as one of the primary transportation links connecting Lahad Datu and Tawau.
Authorities are currently monitoring the situation closely and have yet to determine the exact cause of the collapse.
Safety inspections and structural assessments are also being conducted to evaluate the extent of the damage before any decision is made regarding the reopening of the road.
In the meantime, the public has been advised to stay updated through official announcements before travelling through the affected area to avoid delays and potential safety risks.
-wilayah.com.my
