SUKE incident: Works Minister questions if SOP was followed

Earlier today, news about a gantry crane from the Sungai Besi-Ulu Kelang Elevated Expressway (SUKE) collapsing in Alam Damai broke. The incident killed 3 construction workers and gravely injured 3 others including a Perodua Bezza driver that was passing at that time. Now the Works Ministry and the Public Works Department has spoken up about the incident.

Also read: 3 killed in SUKE construction crane collapse along Alam Damai

Senior Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof told reporters at a letter of acceptance (SST) of projects handover press conference today, in a highway construction project, the road or lane must be closed to all traffic when moving a heavy structure when asked about the SUKE crane collapse earlier today. 

Also read: Trailer driver in SUKE collapse tested positive for drugs; 2 victims dead

He emphasised that the matter was amongst one of the strict standard operating procedures (SOP) that construction contractors must follow to ensure the safety of workers and the public.

Based on initial investigations, the accident occurred when one of the gantry crane components fell. The component landed on a moving vehicle, severely injuring the driver in the process.

Also read: Ministry to take stern action against those responsible for SUKE incident

Fadillah said that they have repeatedly warned the project contractor to comply with the SOPs but yet dangerous situations that costs lives are still occurring.

He confirmed that he has urged the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) to investigate the matter and to carry out strict action if there are any wrongdoings.

Fadillah has also urged Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) as the monitoring body to launch an investigation as well.