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Thousands stranded after rain destroys roads, bridge in Malaysia

Other News Materials 6 February 2009 05:49 (UTC +04:00)

Thousands were left stranded and cut-off from communication after heavy rainfall destroyed one major bridge and caused roads to cave-in in Malaysia's eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo island, news reports said Friday, dpa reported.

Thousands of residents living in the interior areas of Sarawak's Miri district were left stranded in their homes due to rising river waters, while landslides and floods caused many others to be stuck in other parts of the state.

A major highway also reportedly collapsed into a 30-metre-deep ravine, cutting off links to hundreds of people from several villages, the Star daily reported.

In neighbouring Sabah state, a major bridge collapsed from the weight of a lorry after more than 24-hours of heavy downpour late Wednesday, the report said.

No deaths have been reported in both states.

Rainfall in the two states has been abnormally heavy in the past week, with meteorological officers saying the weather is unlikely to improve soon.

Residential and villages in Sabah and Sarawak are connected by the states' vast network of rivers, with boats and small planes being the main mode of transportation.

Rescue officials from both states have said food supplies are currently being sent to affected areas via helicopters and boats.

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