KUALA LUMPUR: One of the beams that collapsed at an uncompleted flyover near Nilai had been laid without support, Works Minister Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu said. 

"As all the beams were connected by wires, when this particular beam collapsed, it brought down all the other beams," he said, adding that the contractor would be punished for it.  

"I have instructed the director-general to be at the site to assess the situation," said Samy Vellu. A full report is expected from the Malaysian Highway Authority (MHA) tomorrow. 

On Thursday, eight beams of the flyover collapsed, narrowly missing a motorist and his aged parents. 

The concrete beams, each measuring 40m in length, weighed 70 tonnes. 

 "We have built many flyovers but this is the first time such a thing has happened. I have contacted the concessionaire and asked how it could have happened. 

"Action must be taken against those responsible," Samy Vellu told reporters here yesterday. 

Samy Vellu said the type of action to be taken would be discussed by his ministry after studying the MHA's report. 

"The report will also be presented to the Cabinet," he said.