GERIK, Nov 26 — Villagers of Kampung Ulu Kenderong and Kampung Bendang Kerajaan had their communication cut off when the pillar supporting an access bridge leading to their villages collapsed today.

State Public Works Department, Energy and Water Committee chairman Datuk Zainol Fadzi Paharudin said at least 2,000 villagers are affected by the incident caused by erosion of Sungai Air Kudung’s river banks.

"As an alternative to the bridge, villagers need to take a 3km detour to get to Gerik town," he said.

The collapsed bridge, added Zainol, was mostly used by parents to send their children to school.

District police chief Superintendent Ismail Che Isa said the pillar gave way due to erosion at the riverbanks of Sungai Air Kudung.

As a result of this, traffic to and from the villages have temporary been halted.

"We have put up signboards to warn motorists of the closure,” said Ismail.