KUCHING, Sept. 13 -- Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has reminded property owners to obtain approval for structures built over public drains after an unauthorised structure at Jalan Mendu collapsed under the weight of a seven-tonne lorry.

Kuching South Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, who inspected the site, said the incident highlighted the safety risks associated with structures constructed over public drainage systems without proper approval.

"All alterations to the existing structures and buildings under the local authorities' jurisdictions must obtain official approval prior to construction works," he said.

"Any persons who wished to erect a structure over a sewer or pipeline must first obtain a written consent from the local council....