Preliminary investigations have found that root decay, worsened by heavy rainfall a day earlier, caused a 30-year-old tree to collapse along Jalan Penang on Saturday, injuring two people.
In a statement, the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) said the fallen tree was identified as a Bucida molineti, measuring about 10 metres in height with a girth of 1.2 metres. The tree was estimated to be around 30 years old.
According to MBPP, the tree had undergone routine annual inspections and previous visual assessments had indicated that it was healthy and in good condition.
“A more comprehensive inspection using satellite-based technology is currently at the final reporting stage,” the council said.
MBPP added that it has taken preventive measures and will further strengthen efforts to assess tree health and stability. This includes more detailed inspections of tree structures and identifying potential hazards such as dead or hanging branches.
The council also said it has acquired ground-penetrating radar equipment to better evaluate the condition of tree roots below ground level.
“We will continue to address the issue of fallen trees by leveraging modern technology and increasing the frequency of inspections to enhance public safety,” MBPP said.
The incident was reported to MBPP at about 6.45pm on Saturday. The fallen tree struck a motorcycle and a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
The motorcyclist and pillion rider sustained minor injuries, while no injuries were reported among the occupants of the four-wheel-drive vehicle.
MBPP, with assistance from the Fire and Rescue Department, carried out cutting and removal works immediately. The affected stretch of Jalan Penang was reopened to traffic at about 8.20pm the same day.
