MB raps PWD over shoddy job on aquatic complex

KUALA TERENGGANU: The failure of the state Public Works Department (PWD) to oversee the construction of the Batu Burok Aquatic Complex here and subsequently failing to conduct periodic checks on the completed sporting facilities has drawn flak from Mentri Besar Datuk Ahmad Said.

Ahmad, who made a surprise visit to the complex yesterday, was visibly upset when he discovered numerous defects in the structure of the RM18mil building.

“Since day one, the PWD should have scrutinised the construction. The roof is leaking and water is lying stagnant in several parts of the building,” he said.

Ahmad said the PWD engineers should have checked on the materials used for the construction of the complex as its proximity to the beachfront meant the materials should be able to withstand adverse weather.

He said the PWD engineers and architects should have been more responsible by conducting constant checks from the start of the construction until the completion.

“They should also have taken into account the cost of the maintenance of the complex if the building materials were not according to specification; this oversight has resulted in imprudent expenses for the state.”

Ahmad was also disappointed to see that the steel pillars supporting the canvas roof at the complex had corroded after just one year.

“The pillars in the complex should have been coated with anti-rust.

“And, luckily, this roof is made of canvas or else we could have another incident of a roof collapsing in the state,” he said, adding that he would call for immediate remedial works.

Meanwhile, Terengganu Swim-ming Association secretary Yan Kong Lee said the defects at the stadium were actually reported to PWD last year.

He added that the leaks in the roof had also damaged facilities and computers at the office inside the aquatic centre.Star