Penang: The Bailey Bridge, built to temporarily replace the Sungai Derhaka Bridge at Jalan Permatang Pauh, was opened to traffic today, two days ahead of schedule. Penang Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari announced this development, highlighting the bridge's importance as a short-term measure following the discovery that the original bridge, constructed in 1960, was no longer safe for use.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the original bridge suffered damage to key structural components, including a collapsed and sunken abutment, and cracks on the underside of the bridge deck slab. Inspections conducted by the Road Facility Maintenance Division, alongside the state Public Works Department (JKR) on October 3, confirmed the bridge's unsuitability for continued use. As a result, the temporary Bailey Bridge was installed to ensure continued traffic flow until funding for a new permanent bridge is secured.

Zairil Khir Johari stated that the construction of the Bailey Bridge, which measures 12 meters long and 11.2 meters wide, was undertaken by JKR through concessionaire THB Maintenance Sdn Bhd at a cost of RM250,000. Work commenced on October 8 and was originally scheduled for completion tomorrow. However, following an inspection by JKR yesterday, it was deemed safe for use and thus opened to the public today.

He emphasized the urgency of the project, noting that the FT311 Jambatan Sungai Derhaka route is a federal road with significant traffic, including commercial vehicles, necessitating a prompt resolution to prevent traffic disruption. Zairil also mentioned that the Penang JKR has sought funding for a new permanent bridge and is currently awaiting a response from the Works Ministry.