Penang CM wants Dosh probe report by next week

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng has asked the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (Dosh) for a "speedy conclusion" to its probe into the collapse of Menara Umno's lightning rod during a freak storm on June 13.

"I have been informed that Dosh is also conducting a similar inquiry into the collapse of the (lightning rod), which happened exactly a week after the collapse of the (Penang second bridge) ramp (on June 6)," Lim said in a statement today.

"As there was only a week’s difference between both tragedies, Dosh should be able to complete investigations into the cause of the collapse of the (lightning rod) by next week.”

A motorist died when the ramp at the bridge project collapsed on Jalan Batu Maung, while the lightning rod smashed onto a car driven by Lim Chin Aik (left), 44,  on Jalan Macalister.

Lim’s body could not be retrieved, as it was believed to be buried too deep inside a crater caused by the falling lightning rod.

Yesterday, Dosh director-general Johari Basry said the department has found that the ramp collapsed because of "shortcomings due to negligence by the contractor involving both procedural and technical aspects".

Johari said the department is preparing to file charges and has approached the public prosecutor for approval.

Lim said the Penang Municipal Council  has issued a stop-work order on the full 24km span of the second bridge, which is estimated to cost RM3 billion.

"The stop-work order stays until a full safety audit has been conducted to ensure that it is not in danger of collapse," said Lim.

"Until the stop work order is lifted and the all-clear is given as to structural safety and stability, the state government will not authorise permits for any events or activities to be held on the second bridge.”

The Penang International Bridge Marathon in November, slated to be held for the first time along the second bridge, will now be moved back to the first bridge.