KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 6 — A landslide following heavy rain yesterday has fully closed a section of Jalan Rawang-Kuala Selangor (B27) at Section 9.90 in the Gombak district.
The Selangor Public Works Department (JKR) said the landslide, which occurred at 11pm, involved failures on both the upslope and downslope sides, causing part of the road structure in the affected section to collapse.
It added that the landslide also brought down trees, blocking the entire road to traffic.
“The road closure was implemented by the Gombak District JKR, while information on alternative routes was disseminated to road users through the Facebook pages of JKR Selangor and Gombak District JKR this morning.
“The incident is believed to have been caused by heavy rain, which resulted in a high volume of rainwater infiltration and increased soil saturation in the sloping area,” the Selangor JKR said in a statement tonight.
The resulting increase in pore water pressure subsequently caused slope instability and soil movement, leading to the collapse and damage of part of the road structure.
However, it noted that detailed investigations and technical assessments are still underway to determine the incident's actual cause.
In addition, a Traffic Management Plan (TMP), including the installation of full road closure and diversion signs, has been activated, while temporary tarpaulin sheets have been installed over the affected road embankment and slope surfaces to prevent erosion and further landslides.
“Clearing works to remove soil debris and fallen trees from the upslope area have been carried out by the state road concessionaire, alongside continuous monitoring of active movement in the road structure and slope stability,” the Selangor JKR said.
A temporary diversion road will be constructed in the affected area for light vehicles, subject to technical considerations involving safety and slope stability.
“Announcements on the reopening of the road will be made once technical assessments confirm that it is safe for traffic, and a diversion route restricted to light vehicles has been provided,” it said.
