GEORGE TOWN — A landslide occurred along Jalan Tun Sardon (Bukit Baru) in Balik Pulau here this evening following continuous rainfall since early today.

It is understood that the incident, which happened at about 5 pm, also caused a tree to fall, blocking the roadway.

As a result, the road — a key route linking Balik Pulau and Paya Terubong — has been completely closed to all vehicles after the area was covered by soil and fallen trees, posing a danger to motorists.

The terrifying moment was captured on a vehicle’s dashboard camera, showing the driver narrowly avoiding the landslide by stopping in time as it occurred.

Penang Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) assistant director of operations John Sagun Francis said no victims or vehicles were reported to be involved in the incident.

He said the department received a distress call at 4.56 pm and immediately dispatched 14 personnel from the Seri Balik Pulau Fire and Rescue Station (BBP), assisted by the Paya Terubong BBP team.

“Upon arrival, the team found a landslide from the hill onto the road covering an estimated area of 30 by 20 square feet at the lower section.

“The operations commander, equipped with full personal protective equipment (PPE), conducted an initial assessment before clearing the debris and removing the fallen tree to ensure safety at the site,” he said.

He added that the case was then handed over to the Public Works Department (JKR) and police for further action.

Meanwhile, state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari confirmed the incident in a Facebook post and urged motorists to reschedule their travel plans as the route had been fully closed.

He said response teams had been deployed to assess the risk level and ensure public safety.