Assemblyman urges immediate action for new Sungai Rambai bridge after structural damage forces closure, impacting residents in Melaka and Johor.
MELAKA: The construction of a new Sungai Rambai Bridge must now be prioritised following the closure of the existing structure due to structural damage.
Assemblyman Datuk Siti Faizah Abdul Azis said the proposal for a new bridge had been brought to the State Executive Council Meeting, as the existing link is unsuitable for long-term use.
The bridge, built in the early 1950s to connect Kesang in Johor with Sungai Rambai in Melaka, has only undergone routine maintenance without major upgrades.
It was closed yesterday after cracks appeared on its support pillars, believed to be caused by tree debris carried by strong river currents.
“Several factors need to be considered, and immediate action taken,” she told Bernama.
She added that recent heavy rainfall and rising river levels are placing additional pressure on the old structure, contributing to further damage.
Although routine river clearing is conducted annually, exceptionally heavy rainfall this year resulted in strong currents carrying significant debris.
Siti Faizah said bilateral discussions between the Melaka and Johor governments on building a new bridge have been ongoing since last year.
The talks involve several agencies including the Public Works Department and the Department of Irrigation and Drainage.
Future planning for Sungai Rambai, including upgrading a riverside area and proposals for a tourist boat jetty, also underscores the need for a new bridge.
“The proposed jetty and tourist boat route also highlight the need for a new bridge, as the existing bridge is too low to allow boats to pass beneath it,” she said.
The closure has not seriously affected general traffic due to alternative routes via the AMJ Highway, but villagers still face daily difficulties.
Local residents who used the bridge to avoid main road congestion now have to take a longer route for daily activities.
Kesang and Sungai Rambai are closely linked socially and for basic amenities, with many Kesang residents relying on facilities in Sungai Rambai.
Siti Faizah added that JKR is currently conducting a detailed study, including the possibility of installing a temporary Bailey bridge.
“We hope that at least a temporary bridge can be installed soon for the safety and convenience of the local community,” she said.
