Sabah’s Lahad Datu–Tawau road collapse strands vehicles, diversion works underway at Jalan Silam

LAHAD DATU, May 15 — The main road linking Lahad Datu and Tawau was cut off this evening after a 50-metre stretch of Jalan Silam here collapsed in both directions.

Lahad Datu District Officer Firuz Idzualdeen @ Benetty Mohd Dzul said the road was temporarily impassable and there is currently no alternative route to either Tawau or Lahad Datu.

“However, I have contacted the district Public Works Department and understand that they will construct a temporary diversion, which is estimated to be completed within about an hour,” he told Bernama when contacted.

He also advised road users to exercise caution when passing through the affected area and to comply with instructions issued by security personnel and authorities at the scene.

“The public is advised to plan their journeys earlier following slow-moving traffic along the route,” he said.

Several photos of the collapsed road have also gone viral on social media, showing vehicles stranded in the area. — Bernama