Penang govt to look into rock danger at hillside apartments

GEORGE TOWN: The state government said it will look into the rocky hill slopes in Paya Terubong causing sleepless nights for 1,000 residents at two apartment blocks who fear they might collapse anytime.

State Transportation and Infrastructure Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said geotechnical experts would likely be called to carry out stability analysis and soil investigation on the hill at Lorong Bukit Kukus.

“When the slopes first began showing signs of instability more than 20 years ago, steel netting was put in place to cover them. Soil nails were also inserted and a gabion wall was constructed to strengthen the slopes.

“As this case has only just been brought to my attention, I will call for a meeting with all relevant departments,” Zairil said in a statement.

​The Grandview Heights residents had one nasty experience when huge rocks came loose and landed on two cars parked by the roadside after heavy rain two years ago.

One lane was closed following the incident but the debris has not been cleared, leading the residents to describe it as a eyesore and a nuisance to motorists.