KENINGAU: Residents and traders at Keningau Tamu Ground again voiced concern over the condition of the main pedestrian bridge that serves as their daily route into the trading area.
The iron bridge, which connects the residential area to the tamu site, could pose a serious danger if not repaired immediately.
A check at the location found several parts of the bridge already rusted, bent and perforated, creating risks for anyone crossing it. Its thin and fragile metal structure has heightened the worries of traders and visitors who rely on the walkway every day.
A vegetable seller met said they have no choice but to continue using the bridge despite being aware of the risks.
“We are scared to use this bridge because it already has holes and could collapse into the drain at any time. But what can we do? This is the only route for us to carry our vegetables and fruits to the Tamu Ground. If we don’t use this bridge, it will be difficult for us to get customers.”
The seller said traders from outside the district who come during weekends also share the same concern, especially since the Tamu Ground is a major focal point, particularly on market days.
Nearby residents also expressed that the poor condition of the bridge has long been known, yet no urgent action has been taken by the local authorities.
“We hope the local authority will come to the ground and see the bridge for themselves. Don’t wait until someone falls or an accident happens before taking action,” said a regular user of the walkway.
They stressed that repairing or rebuilding the bridge is an urgent necessity, as it serves not only the traders but also customers and visitors from outside the area who come to shop at the Tamu Ground.
Residents believe that if the bridge is repaired promptly, it would not only reduce safety risks but also help smoothen local economic activities and provide greater convenience for everyone.
They also hope that their concerns will be given the proper attention by the local authorities for the benefit of the Keningau community as a whole. Basic infrastructure improvements such as pedestrian bridges, they said, are essential needs that should not be overlooked, especially in areas that attract large crowds.
With the bridge’s condition continuing to deteriorate, residents now await prompt and concrete action from the relevant authorities before any untoward incident occurs.
