No More Heavy Vehicles On Kuala Terengganu Drawbridge From Jan 1

Starting Jan 1, heavy vehicles will no longer be allowed to cross the Kuala Terengganu drawbridge, following the enforcement of new height and weight restrictions aimed at improving safety and protecting the structure.

Under the new rules, lorries, trailers and tourist buses exceeding five tonnes in gross vehicle weight or unladen weight will be barred from using the bridge. 

The restriction will be enforced through 3.5-metre-high barrier gates, which will be activated at the start of the new year.

Ti Properties Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Awasi Mohamad said the move is meant to prevent oversized and overweight vehicles from crossing the iconic bridge, which could pose risks to other road users and damage the structure over time. 

"The enforcement follows Section 86(3) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which prohibits vehicles weighing five tonnes or more from crossing drawbridges," he said in a NST report.

According to Awasi, limiting heavy vehicles is not just about traffic control, but also about preserving the bridge’s structural integrity, ensuring public safety, and extending the lifespan of one of Terengganu’s most recognisable landmarks.

To avoid confusion, warning signs displaying weight limits and legal notices have been installed along key roads leading to the drawbridge. 

"Height restriction alerts are also shown on LED screens at the bridge as a constant reminder to drivers," he added.

Vehicles that exceed the permitted limits will be required to use alternative routes, namely the Sultan Mahmud Bridge or Manir Bridge, which link Kuala Nerus to Kuala Terengganu city centre. 

For tourist buses, designated parking areas have also been prepared near the drawbridge to ensure smoother traffic flow and convenience for visitors.