The bus’ roof was nearly ripped open after it got caught in the underpass. File Photo
KUCHING: Datuk Bandar of Kuching North Datuk Abang Abdul Wahap Abang Julai yesterday reminded all motorists to be mindful of road warning signs following Sunday’s incident in which a chartered bus failed to clear the Temenggong Abang Kipali Abang Akip underpass in Petra Jaya.
“I thought all of the drivers passing through the underpass knew about the clearance limit. I was informed that the driver of the bus is not from around here.
“Still, it is impossible for the driver to not notice the clearance level sign posted at the underpass,” he told reporters after a walkabout at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching where preparation works for the 13th Asia Pacific Orchid Conference is currently underway.
He added that Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) has contacted the relevant authorities to inspect the underpass for any damage, adding the cost of any repairs would be passed on to the party responsible for the damage.
“An initial inspection was conducted and there was no physical damage seen at the underpass. However, we are still waiting from the JKR (Public Works Department) side to determine the integrity of the structure,” he said.
In the incident, the chartered bus was heading to Satok from Petra Jaya when it got caught at the underpass, resulting in its roof being badly damaged.
It is learnt that the bus was ferrying students from SMK Hulu Balingian, Bintulu to Santubong. No injuries were reported in the incident. The height clearance for the underpass, as stated on its signage, is 2.2 metres.